Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP)

About

Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) is a relatively common problem. The cause is unknown but genetically determined collagen disorder maybe responsible for it. If signs and symptoms arise it is due to leakage of blood through the valve.

An echocardiogram is confirmatory of the diagnosis. MVP is not life-threatening in most of the cases and may not require treatment.

Other Names - Barlow's Syndrome, Floppy Valve Syndrome and Ballooning Mitral Valve Syndrome.

The mitral valve controls the flow of blood between two chambers of the heart called the left atrium and the left ventricle. Blood flow has to occur only in one direction (from the atrium to the ventricle). In mitral valve prolapse (MVP) the valve fails to close properly. The flaps of this valve bulge (prolapsed) upward or back into the atrium during contraction of the ventricle. This may lead to leakage of blood backward into the left atrium.

Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) is a relatively common but highly varying clinical syndrome. MVP is more common in females especially those between the ages of 15 and 30 years.

Older people (commonly males) above 50 years may also be affected. MVP is not life-threatening in most of the cases and may not requirement treatment.