Mitral Regurgitation

Question 1

Define mitral regurgitation.

Answer 1

Failure of the mitral valve which causes backwash of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium.

Question 2

Explain the aetiology/risk factors of mitral regurgitation.

Answer 2

Mitral valve prolapse
Hx of rheumatic heart disease
Infective endocarditis
Hx of cardiac trauma
Hx of MI
Hx of cvs disease
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Anorectic/dopaminergic drugs

Question 3

Summarise the epidemiology of mitral regurgitation.

Answer 3

Although the exact incidence and prevalence of MR is unknown it has been suggested that the prevalence probably exceeds 5,000,000 worldwide.

Question 4

Recognise the presenting symptoms of mitral regurgitation.

Answer 4

SOB on exertion
Orthopnoea
Palpitations
Decreased exercise tolerance
Fatigue

Question 5

Recognise the signs of mitral regurgitation on physical examination.

Answer 5

S3 sound
Lower extremity oedema
Diminished S1 sound

Question 6

Identify appropriate investigations for mitral regurgitation and interpret the results.

Answer 6

ECG
Echocardiogram