Which valve is affected in rheumatic disease leading to stenosis?

Which valve is affected in rheumatic disease leading to stenosis?

• A. Mitral valve
• B. Aortic valve
• C. Tricuspid valve
• D. Pulmonary valve

Answer: (A)

Rheumatic heart disease most classically causes stenosis of the mitral valve. After rheumatic fever, inflammatory damage leads to thickening and fusion of the valve leaflets, especially at the commissures, progressively restricting opening. This produces a diastolic murmur best heard at the apex with the patient in the left lateral decubitus position, often accompanied by an opening snap. Over time the increased left atrial pressure can cause dilation and atrial fibrillation. While other valves can be involved, the mitral valve is by far the most commonly stenosed in rheumatic disease.

Rheumatic heart disease most classically causes stenosis of the mitral valve. After rheumatic fever, inflammatory damage leads to thickening and fusion of the valve leaflets, especially at the commissures, progressively restricting opening. This produces a diastolic murmur best heard at the apex with the patient in the left lateral decubitus position, often accompanied by an opening snap. Over time the increased left atrial pressure can cause dilation and atrial fibrillation. While other valves can be involved, the mitral valve is by far the most commonly stenosed in rheumatic disease.