Description

A patient with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) may be at risk for infectious endocarditis.


Risk factors:

(1) presence of a precordial systolic murmur (odds ratio 14.5)

(2) abnormal area on valve leaflet

(3) poor oral hygiene

 

Complications:

(1) systemic embolization, including stroke

(2) valvular destruction with worsening of regurgitation

 

Antibiotic prophylaxis may be indicated in selected patients to reduce the risk of iatrogenic endocarditis. In most cases antibiotic prophylaxis is not recommended.

 

A patient with MVP should maintain good oral hygiene and avoid risk factors for endocarditis such as substance abuse.


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