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Mitral valve prolapse: old beliefs yield to new knowledge
1Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio 44195, USA.
Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine
|November 15, 2002
Summary
Conventional understanding of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is evolving. While most patients experience a benign course and excellent prognosis, serious complications are rare.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Valvular Heart Disease
Background:
- Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a common valvular heart condition.
- Traditional views on MVP prevalence, etiology, diagnosis, and management are being re-evaluated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and update the understanding of mitral valve prolapse.
- To highlight the generally benign nature and favorable prognosis of MVP.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and clinical guidelines.
- Analysis of epidemiological data and long-term patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- The prevalence, causes, and diagnostic criteria for MVP are subject to ongoing revision.
- Most individuals with MVP exhibit a benign clinical course.
- Serious complications associated with MVP affect only a small patient subset.
Conclusions:
- The prognosis for the majority of patients with mitral valve prolapse is excellent.
- Current understanding emphasizes the generally favorable outcomes and low risk of severe complications in MVP.