Thoracic skeletal abnormalities in young men with mitral valve prolapse

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a common cardiac condition.
• Thoracic skeletal abnormalities can affect cardiovascular health.
• The association between MVP and skeletal deformities requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of thoracic skeletal abnormalities in National Servicemen diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse.
• To compare radiographic measurements in MVP patients with the general population and international series.
• To explore the potential link between cardiac murmurs, MVP, and skeletal deformities.

Main Methods:

• Screening of young National Servicemen for cardiac murmurs.
• Diagnosis of 74 cases of mitral valve prolapse.
• PA and lateral Chest X-rays to assess thoracic skeletal features.
• Radiographic measurements including AP diameter, AP/transthoracic ratio, vertebral index, and angle of kyphosis.

Main Results:

• 58% of subjects with MVP had one or more thoracic skeletal deformities.
• Significant differences in radiographic measurements were observed compared to the normal population.
• Abnormalities included straight back (18%), scoliosis (24%), and sternal abnormalities (38%).
• Two cases presented with a 'pancake' heart appearance.

Conclusions:

• Thoracic skeletal abnormalities are common in individuals with mitral valve prolapse.
• Radiographic measurements in MVP patients differ significantly from normal populations.
• Mitral valve prolapse should be considered in patients with thoracic skeletal abnormalities, particularly those with cardiac murmurs.