The rheumatic valvular heart disease ppt
The rheumatic valvular heart disease ppt Rheumatic valvular heart disease (RVHD) remains a significant cause of acquired heart disease worldwide, particularly in developing countries. It predominantly arises as a complication of rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that develops after untreated or inadequately treated Group A streptococcal pharyngitis. Understanding the pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of rheumatic valvular heart disease is crucial for effective prevention and treatment.
The rheumatic valvular heart disease ppt At its core, rheumatic valvular heart disease results from an autoimmune response triggered by streptococcal infection. The immune system mistakenly attacks the heart valves, especially the mitral and aortic valves, leading to inflammation and subsequent scarring. This process causes valvular deformities such as leaflet thickening, commissural fusion, and calcification, which impair normal valve function. The mitral valve is most commonly affected, often resulting in mitral stenosis, but mitral regurgitation can also occur. Aortic involvement, usually aortic stenosis or regurgitation, is less frequent but equally significant.
Clinically, patients with rheumatic valvular disease may remain asymptomatic for years post-infection. When symptoms manifest, they often include exertional dyspnea, fatigue, palpitations, and signs of congestive heart failure in advanced stages. In cases of mitral stenosis, patients might exhibit a characteristic diastolic murmur best heard at the apex with the opening snap. Aortic valve involvement presents with systolic murmurs and signs of decreased cardiac output. Over time, recurrent rheumatic episodes exacerbate valve damage, accelerating disease progression. The rheumatic valvular heart disease ppt
The rheumatic valvular heart disease ppt Diagnosis hinges on clinical history, physical examination, and echocardiography. A history of rheumatic fever or streptococcal infection supports the diagnosis. Echocardiography is the gold standard, revealing characteristic features such as leaflet thickening, commissural fusion, and restricted valve mobility. It also assesses the severity of stenosis or regurgitation, chamber dilatation, and pulmonary hypertension. Electrocardiography may show atrial fibrillation, common in mitral stenosis, and chest radiography can demonstrate cardiomegaly and pulmonary congestion.
The rheumatic valvular heart disease ppt Management of rheumatic valvular disease involves both medical and surgical approaches. Acute rheumatic fever is treated with anti-inflammatory agents like aspirin or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Antibiotic prophylaxis with penicillin is vital to prevent recurrent streptococcal infections and subsequent rheumatic episodes. For established valvular lesions, medical therapy aims to control symptoms—diuretics for pulmonary congestion, beta-blockers, and vasodilators as needed. Anticoagulation is indicated if atrial fibrillation develops or there are thromboembolic risks.
Surgical intervention becomes necessary in severe cases. Valve repair or replacement options include commissurotomy for mitral stenosis, and valve replacement with mechanical or bioprosthetic valves when repair is not feasible. The choice depends on factors such as patient age, comorbidities, and lifestyle considerations.
Preventing rheumatic valvular heart disease relies heavily on public health measures: prompt diagnosis and treatment of streptococcal infections, adequate antibiotic use, and community awareness about rheumatic fever. Early intervention can halt or slow the progression of valvular damage, reducing morbidity and mortality.
In conclusion, rheumatic valvular heart disease continues to be a global health challenge. Its pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and management require a comprehensive understanding to improve outcomes. Emphasizing prevention through early treatment of streptococcal infections remains the most effective strategy against this preventable cause of heart disease. The rheumatic valvular heart disease ppt
