DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Cardiac Disease

Mitral Regurgitation

MODERATE

A condition where the mitral valve doesn't close tightly, causing blood to flow backward into the left atrium when the heart contracts. Can be primary (valve problem) or secondary (heart enlargement). Leads to heart enlargement and heart failure if severe.

Global Affected

24.0M

Countries

89

Symptoms

Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Heart palpitations
Heart murmur
Cough
Swollen feet/ankles
Lightheadedness
Rapid heartbeat

Treatment Options

Mitral valve repair surgery
Mitral valve replacement
Transcatheter mitral valve repair (MitraClip)
ACE inhibitors
Beta-blockers
Diuretics
Anticoagulants (if AF present)
Watchful waiting (mild cases)

Risk Factors

1Mitral valve prolapse
2Rheumatic fever
3Endocarditis
4Heart attack
5Cardiomyopathy
6Age-related degeneration
7Radiation therapy
8Certain medications (fenfluramine)
9Connective tissue disorders

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Echocardiogram
  • 2Transesophageal echocardiogram
  • 3Cardiac MRI
  • 4Cardiac catheterization
  • 5Chest X-ray
  • 6ECG
  • 7Physical exam (holosystolic murmur)

Prognosis

Good with proper treatment. 10-year survival >80% after surgery. Untreated severe MR has poor prognosis (5-year survival 50-60%). Early intervention improves outcomes significantly.

Prevention

  • Rheumatic fever prevention
  • Endocarditis prophylaxis
  • Blood pressure control
  • Prompt treatment of strep infections
  • Regular cardiac monitoring (if valve disease known)

Research Status

Surgical mitral valve repair preferred over replacement. Transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (MitraClip) for high-risk patients. Medications for heart failure symptoms. Early surgery recommended before left ventricle dysfunction develops.

Sources

  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mitral-valve-regurgitation
  • https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-valve-problems-and-disease
  • https://www.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17056-mitral-valve-regurgitation

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.