Congenital Mitral Valve Anomalies

Congenital mitral valve anomalies are structural abnormalities of the mitral valve that are present at birth. The mitral valve controls blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart. When this valve does not form normally, it can affect how efficiently blood moves through the heart. These anomalies range from mild defects that cause few symptoms to severe conditions that require early medical or surgical intervention.

Symptoms

Symptoms of congenital mitral valve anomalies depend on the type and severity of the defect and may appear in infancy, childhood, or adulthood. Common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath, especially during feeding in infants or physical activity in older individuals

• Fatigue or poor exercise tolerance

• Rapid or labored breathing

• Poor weight gain or growth delay in children

• Heart murmur detected during a physical examination

• Swelling of the legs, ankles, or abdomen in severe cases

• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

Causes

Congenital mitral valve anomalies occur due to abnormal development of the mitral valve during early fetal growth. The valve leaflets, chordae tendineae, or papillary muscles may be malformed, shortened, thickened, or improperly positioned. These defects can lead to mitral valve stenosis, mitral valve regurgitation, or a combination of both. Genetic factors and developmental disruptions may play a role.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase the likelihood of congenital mitral valve anomalies include:

• Family history of congenital heart defects

• Genetic or chromosomal conditions

• Presence of other congenital heart abnormalities

• Maternal illnesses or infections during pregnancy

• Exposure to certain medications or harmful substances during pregnancy

Complications

If not properly managed, congenital mitral valve anomalies can lead to significant complications:

• Heart failure due to impaired blood flow

• Pulmonary hypertension

• Abnormal heart rhythms

• Increased risk of blood clots or stroke

• Endocarditis, an infection of the heart lining or valves

• Delayed growth and development in children

Prevention

Congenital mitral valve anomalies cannot be prevented because they develop before birth. However, early detection and appropriate care can reduce complications and improve outcomes. Preventive strategies focus on:

• Regular cardiac monitoring and follow-up

• Early treatment of symptoms and associated heart conditions

• Preventive measures against infections as advised by a healthcare provider

• Genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital heart defects

• Long-term care planning with a cardiology specialist