Mitral valve prolapse. Avoiding complications of a progressive disease

Abstract

Mitral valve prolapse is a common disorder, but it carries low morbidity and mortality. Patients require close follow-up, however, to prevent development of serious complications. In addition, patients with thickened mitral valve leaflets or mitral regurgitation require antibiotic prophylaxis against infective endocarditis. Family members of patients with primary mitral valve prolapse should be screened for the disease, because it often is asymptomatic.