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Mitral Valve Prolapse

Disease Details

Family Health Simplified

Description
Mitral valve prolapse is a condition in which the two valve flaps of the mitral valve do not close smoothly or evenly, but instead bulge (prolapse) upward into the left atrium during the heart's contraction.
Type
Mitral valve prolapse is typically classified as a valvular heart disease. The type of genetic transmission for mitral valve prolapse can be autosomal dominant, meaning a single copy of the altered gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the disorder.
Signs And Symptoms
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a condition where the mitral valve of the heart doesn't close properly.

**Signs and Symptoms:**
- Often asymptomatic
- Heart palpitations
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Anxiety or panic attacks

These symptoms can vary widely, and some people with MVP may never experience any noticeable issues.
Prognosis
Generally, MVP is benign. However, MVP patients with a murmur, not just an isolated click, have an increased mortality rate of 15-20%. The major predictors of mortality are the severity of mitral regurgitation and reduction in ejection fraction.Close monitoring and treatment, if necessary, is recommended for those with severe MVP to prevent complications and reduce the risk of mortality. In most cases, individuals with MVP can lead a normal and healthy life with minimal symptoms.
Onset
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) often begins in childhood or adolescence, but it can remain asymptomatic and undiagnosed for years. It is sometimes identified in young adulthood or middle age during a routine physical examination or echocardiogram.
Prevalence
Mitral valve prolapse is found in approximately 2-3% of the general population. It's more commonly diagnosed in women and can be discovered at any age, though it often becomes clinically evident in young adulthood.
Epidemiology
Prior to the strict criteria for the diagnosis of mitral valve prolapse, as described above, the incidence of mitral valve prolapse in the general population varied greatly. Some studies estimated the incidence of mitral valve prolapse at 5 to 15 percent or even higher. One 1985 study suggested MVP in up to 35% of healthy teenagers.Recent elucidation of mitral valve anatomy and the development of three-dimensional echocardiography have resulted in improved diagnostic criteria, and the true prevalence of MVP based on these criteria is estimated at 2-3%. As a part of the Framingham Heart Study, for example, the prevalence of mitral valve prolapse in Framingham, MA was estimated at 2.4%. There was a near-even split between classic and nonclassic MVP, with no significant age or sex discrimination. MVP is observed in 7% of autopsies in the United States.In a Taiwanese CHIEF heart study of Asian adult military personnel, it was estimated that out of 2442 people in Hualien aged 18 to 39, mitral valve prolapse occurred in 3.36%. People with MVP had lower body mass index, somatic symptoms related to exercise (chest pain, dyspnea, palpitations during exercise) and systolic click in auscultation. 7 out of 82 participants with MVP had mild pectus excavatum.
Intractability
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is not typically considered an intractable condition. Many individuals with MVP have no symptoms and require no treatment. For those who do experience symptoms, lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, surgical interventions can effectively manage the condition. Regular monitoring and follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to manage and treat any complications that may arise.
Disease Severity
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is generally a mild condition for most individuals and often does not cause significant health problems. However, the severity can vary. Some people may experience symptoms like palpitations, chest pain, or fatigue, and in rare cases, MVP can lead to complications such as mitral regurgitation, infective endocarditis, or arrhythmias. Regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare provider are essential to manage the condition and address any potential complications.
Healthcare Professionals
Disease Ontology ID - DOID:988
Pathophysiology
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is characterized by the displacement of an abnormally thickened mitral valve leaflet into the left atrium during systole. This occurs due to myxomatous degeneration, which leads to the weakening and elongation of the valve leaflets and chordae tendineae. The weakened structure fails to close properly, resulting in prolapse and sometimes mitral regurgitation, where blood flows backward into the left atrium. The exact cause of myxomatous degeneration is not fully understood but is thought to involve genetic and connective tissue factors.
Carrier Status
Mitral valve prolapse is not typically described in terms of "carrier status," as it is not a straightforward genetic condition. It is a structural heart condition where the mitral valve does not close properly. Genetic factors can contribute to its development, but it is usually considered a multifactorial condition involving both genetic and environmental factors.
Mechanism
**Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) Mechanism:**

Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) occurs when the leaflets of the mitral valve bulge (prolapse) into the left atrium during systole (the phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle contracts). This abnormal movement can sometimes allow blood to leak backward into the left atrium, a condition known as mitral regurgitation. The primary anatomical change involves the elongation and thickening of the valve leaflets and the chordae tendineae (the fibrous cords that anchor the leaflets to the heart muscle).

**Molecular Mechanisms:**

1. **Extracellular Matrix Alterations**: There is often an accumulation of extracellular matrix components such as proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans within the valve leaflets, leading to myxomatous degeneration. This weakens the structure of the valve, making it more prone to prolapse.

2. **Genetic Factors**: MVP has been associated with mutations in genes encoding for extracellular matrix proteins like fibrillin-1, which is involved in Marfan syndrome, and other genetic loci. Familial forms of MVP suggest a heritable component where mutations or polymorphisms in certain genes predispose individuals to valve structural abnormalities.

3. **Cellular Signaling Pathways**: Dysregulation in signaling pathways that govern cell-matrix interactions, such as the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) pathway, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of MVP. Abnormalities in these pathways can lead to altered cellular behavior and matrix production.

4. **Oxidative Stress**: Increased oxidative stress has been observed in patients with MVP, which can lead to cellular damage and contribute to the dysfunction and structural changes in the mitral valve tissues.

Understanding these mechanisms aids in the development of targeted therapies and provides insight into the progression and potential complications of mitral valve prolapse.
Treatment
Individuals with mitral valve prolapse, particularly those without symptoms, often require no treatment. Those with mitral valve prolapse and symptoms of dysautonomia (palpitations, chest pain) may benefit from beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, metoprolol, bisoprolol). People with prior stroke or atrial fibrillation may require blood thinners, such as aspirin or warfarin. In rare instances when mitral valve prolapse is associated with severe mitral regurgitation, surgical repair or replacement of the mitral valve may be necessary. Mitral valve repair is generally considered preferable to replacement. Current ACC/AHA guidelines promote repair of mitral valve in people before symptoms of heart failure develop. Symptomatic people, those with evidence of diminished left ventricular function, or those with left ventricular dilatation need urgent attention.
Compassionate Use Treatment
For mitral valve prolapse (MVP), compassionate use treatment and off-label or experimental treatments may include:

1. **Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)**: While primarily used for depression and anxiety, SSRIs like sertraline have been used off-label to help manage symptoms associated with autonomic dysfunction in MVP patients.
2. **Beta-Blockers**: Medications like propranolol can be used off-label for their calming effect on heart rate and mitigation of palpitations and anxiety symptoms.
3. **Calcium Channel Blockers**: Though typically used for high blood pressure, medications such as verapamil may be used off-label to help control heart rate and improve symptoms.
4. **Myxomatous Degeneration Modulation**: Experimental treatments targeting the specific genetic and molecular pathways involved in the weakening of the mitral valve tissue are under investigation.
5. **Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair Devices**: Minimally invasive devices and techniques like the MitraClip are being explored as experimental interventions for severe cases of mitral regurgitation due to MVP.

These treatments are considered in patients who are symptomatic despite standard care or ineligible for conventional surgical options. Always consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits and risks of these treatments.
Lifestyle Recommendations
For mitral valve prolapse (MVP), here are some lifestyle recommendations:

1. **Regular Check-ups**: Maintain regular follow-up appointments with a cardiologist to monitor the condition.
2. **Healthy Diet**: Eat a balanced diet low in salt, saturated fats, and sugars to maintain heart health.
3. **Exercise**: Engage in regular, moderate physical activity as advised by a healthcare provider.
4. **Hydration**: Drink plenty of fluids to keep the body well-hydrated.
5. **Avoid Caffeine and Stimulants**: Limit intake of caffeine and other stimulants that can exacerbate palpitations.
6. **Stress Reduction**: Practice stress-reducing techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises.
7. **Smoking and Alcohol**: Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
8. **Medication Adherence**: Take prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare provider.
9. **Infection Prevention**: Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infections that can affect the heart.

There are no explicit recommendations associated with "nan."
Medication
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a condition where the valve between the heart's left atrium and left ventricle doesn't close properly. While many people with MVP may not require treatment, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms or prevent complications:

1. **Beta-blockers**: These are often used to treat palpitations and anxiety associated with MVP.
2. **Antibiotics**: May be prescribed before certain dental or surgical procedures to prevent infective endocarditis, though this is less common now following updated guidelines.
3. **Anticoagulants**: Blood thinners may be prescribed if there is a risk of blood clots.
4. **Diuretics**: Used if there is heart failure involvement to reduce fluid accumulation.
5. **Anti-arrhythmic medications**: These may be used to manage irregular heartbeats.

Always consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and tailored treatment.
Repurposable Drugs
For mitral valve prolapse, there are currently no well-established repurposable drugs specifically for treating this condition. Treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications, often using beta-blockers, aspirin, or antibiotics for specific indications rather than repurposed drugs. Guidelines and practices may evolve with ongoing research.
Metabolites
For mitral valve prolapse (MVP), specific metabolites are not typically the primary focus of diagnosis or management. MVP is more commonly assessed through clinical examination and imaging techniques, such as echocardiography. Metabolomics, while a growing field, has not yet defined specific metabolites directly associated with MVP to the best of current knowledge. If you have other aspects of MVP or related questions, I'd be happy to help.
Nutraceuticals
For mitral valve prolapse, there is no specific nutraceutical that is universally recommended as a treatment. Nutritional supplements may not directly affect the structural aspects of the mitral valve. However, maintaining overall cardiovascular health is important, and some people may choose to support this with general supplements such as Coenzyme Q10, magnesium, or Omega-3 fatty acids, though these are not specific treatments for mitral valve prolapse itself and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

As for nanotechnology (nan), there is ongoing research in the field of cardiology that explores the potential of nanomaterials and nanoparticles for various applications, including targeted drug delivery, imaging, and tissue engineering. However, specific nanotechnology-based treatments for mitral valve prolapse are not yet established in clinical practice.
Peptides
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a condition where the leaflets of the mitral valve in the heart do not close properly, causing them to bulge (prolapse) into the left atrium during the heart's contraction. Although the direct relationship between specific peptides and mitral valve prolapse is not well-documented, research is ongoing to explore potential biochemical markers and therapeutic targets. No specific peptides are currently established in clinical practice directly for the treatment or diagnosis of MVP.