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[The mitral valve prolapse syndrome and its complications (author's transl)]
Abstract:
Out of 1800 patients examined for valvular heart disease, 19 were found to have the mitral valve prolapse syndrome (MVPS). The relevant literature is reviewed and the epidemiology and aetiology of the disease are discussed. 50% of the patients had a history of endomyocarditis. The special diagnostic value of echocardiography is emphasized. Sudden death (observed in 2 young patients) and the grave complication of bacterial endocarditis (observed in 3 patients and usually caused by Streptococcus viridans) can occur in this condition. Prophylactic therapy with beta-blocking drugs and antibiotics seems warranted. The case history of one patient with MVPS under observation for eight years, who developed bacterial endocarditis from a dental focus is reported in greater detail as a typical case.
Insights
Mitral valve prolapse syndrome (MVPS) affects 19 of 1800 patients, with endomyocarditis history in 50%. Echocardiography aids diagnosis, and complications like sudden death and bacterial endocarditis highlight the need for prophylactic therapy.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Review of valvular heart disease epidemiology and etiology.
- Focus on Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome (MVPS) prevalence.
Observation:
- 19 out of 1800 patients examined had MVPS.
- 50% of patients with MVPS had a history of endomyocarditis.
Findings:
- Echocardiography is a key diagnostic tool for MVPS.
- Potential complications include sudden death and bacterial endocarditis (Streptococcus viridans).
Implications:
- Prophylactic therapy with beta-blockers and antibiotics is suggested.
- A case study illustrates bacterial endocarditis developing from a dental focus in an MVPS patient.