Mitral Stenosis

1

What is the most common cause of mitral valve stenosis in adults?

Rheumatic fever. This usually occurs in early childhood, and many patients do not recall their illness.

2

Which gender is most commonly affected?

Women, by a ratio of 2:1.

3

What is the main symptom of mitral valve stenosis?

Dyspnea on exertion.

4

What are the physical examination findings associated with mitral valve stenosis?

On auscultation, an opening snap and a diastolic murmur best heard at the apex.

5

How is the diagnosis confirmed?

Echocardiography: Transesophageal echocardiography is most accurate (but not always necessary).

6

What is the normal cross-sectional area of the mitral valve orifice?

• Normal is 4–6 cm ²

• Mild mitral stenosis is <2 cm ²

• Severe mitral stenosis is <1 cm ²

7

What is the Gorlin formula?

A formula used to calculate the area of a heart valve. In simplified terms:

Mitral valve area = cardiac output (CO) ÷ √mean pressure gradient across the valve