Disorder - Mitral valve disease

Organ Systems Involved
Cardiovascular

Alternative Names
Chronic Valvular Disease (CVD)
Left atrioventricuolar valve disease
Mitral Valve Insufficiency
Valvular Fibrosis
Nodular Valvitis
Leaky Valve disease

Brief Description

This is a condition where the mitral valve of the heart (muscular flaps within the heart chambers that ensure that blood flows in one direction) is not functioning normally, interfering with the normal rate and smoothness of blood flow.

Presenting Signs

Valves ensure that the blood is pumped in only one direction. If a valve is faulty, some blood will flow in the wrong direction and affect the normal circulation of blood throughout the body. In this disorder the blood is less effectively pumped by the heart and blood can pool in the lungs, interfering with breathing, there may be a number of signs. In the early stages the dog may have no symptoms. As the disease progresses a decreased ability to exercise, coughing, restlessness, poor appetite, rapid breathing, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties may be seen. Coughing may occur at night or with exercise and excitement. Brief loss of consciousness may also occur usually in association with coughing spells or abnormal heartbeat rhythms.

Dogs at Risk

Longhaired dogs may be more commonly and more severely affected than shorthaired, followed by wired-haired dogs. The disease is generally more common in males than in females.

Groups Affected
Non Sporting
Terrier
Toy


Breeds Affected
British bulldog
Chihuahua
Great Dane
Keeshond
Norfolk terrier


Treatment

Medical

PubMed References
Mitral valve disease

Further Reference Material [OMIA Number]
654


Contributor
Claudia Lin