Mitral valve defect occurs when the mitral valve malfunctions. Mitral valve is placed between the left atrium and the left ventricle in the heart. The heart contains four chamber; two upper chambers called atria and two lower chambers called ventricles. The oxygen-poor blood enters the right side of the heart from the rest of the body, which is then pumped to the lungs to be oxygenated. The oxygen-rich blood returns to the left side of the heart and from there, pumped to the rest of the body. In mitral valve defect, the blood is allowed to flow backwards; hence not enough blood is transported to the left ventricle to be pumped to the rest of the body.

Types of mitral valve defects include:

Mitral valve stenosis which is the narrowing of the mitral valve resulting in reduced blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle. It is usually caused by rheumatic fever, which is a serious complication of streptococcal sore throat. Other causes include blood clots, calcium build up, congenital heart defects, radiation treatments and tumours
Mitral valve regurgitation in which the mitral valve fails to close tightly allowing blood to leak backwards into the left atrium. It can be caused by endocarditis (inflammation of the heart’s lining and valve), heart attack and rheumatic fever. Children who experience this defect may also have other heart problems such as holes in the walls that separate the upper and lower chambers
Mitral valve prolapse in which the valves bulge instead of closing tightly. The valves collapse backwards with every pump of the heart. At times this can cause regurgitation. Mitral valve prolapse often runs in the family. Other causes include scoliosis, connective tissue problems, and Down’s syndrome.

Mitral valve defects may not pose a problem itself but it can lead to other serious threats like heart failure, if not treated timely.

When to seek expert advise

Visit our doctors at the Children's Hospital Service Line at The Aga Khan University Hospital the only internationally accredited hospital in Pakistan, if you notice the above mentioned symptoms in your child.

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Disclaimer

The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.