[Cardiac valvulopathy and dopamine agonist]

To assess the possible relationship between treatment with dopamine agonists and cardiac fibrotic valvulopathy in Parkinson's disease, a systematic review of published articles describing this association was performed.

Cardiac valvulopathy has been described in parkinsonian patients taking pergolide, and in a few isolated cases treated with cabergoline or bromocriptine.

Until now, no cases of valvulopathy related to non-ergot dopamine agonists have been reported.

Cumulative dose and duration of treatment are likely risk factors for development of valvulopathy. In some cases, the discontinuation of ergotic dopamine agonists was followed by improvement of valve regurgitation.