[Acquired childhood heart diseases in developing countries]

In developing countries rheumatic valve disease is the most frequently acquired cardiac disorder observed during childhood. Any valve may be affected but the mitral valve is the predominant site. Echocardiography has a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders. Severe rheumatic valve disease carries a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Available surgical treatments include prosthetic valve replacement and conservative surgery, which is preferable when feasible. Percutaneous mitral commissurotomy is currently the treatment of choice for mitral stenosis. Preventive strategies are needed to eliminate rheumatic fever and the valve disorders it can cause.