What is the relationship between rheumatic heart disease and mitral valve stenosis?

Rheumatic heart disease and mitral valve stenosis are closely linked conditions. Rheumatic heart disease is a consequence of untreated or inadequately treated streptococcal throat infection, which can lead to inflammation of the heart, particularly the heart valves. Mitral valve stenosis is a condition in which the opening of the mitral valve becomes narrow, restricting the blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle. In rheumatic heart disease, the inflammation affects the mitral valve and causes scarring and thickening, leading to mitral valve stenosis. Therefore, rheumatic heart disease is considered one of the most common causes of mitral valve stenosis worldwide. Effective treatment and prevention of streptococcal infection play a crucial role in reducing the risk of developing rheumatic heart disease and subsequently mitral valve stenosis.

This mind map was published on 17 October 2023 and has been viewed 48 times.