Mitral Valve Dysplasia in Dogs
September 30, 2016Mitral valve dysplasia is a congenital malformation of the valve that closes between the left atrium and left ventricle to prevent backflow of blood when the heart beats. Because of this malformed valve, the heart performs less efficiently.
Tricuspid valve dysplasia is a congenital malformation of the valve that closes between the right atrium and right ventricle to prevent backflow of blood when the heart beats. Because of this malformed valve, the heart performs less efficiently.
Common consequences of both of these malformations include heart failure and arrythmias (abnormal heart rhythms). Once heart failure develops, the symptoms can be controlled with medication and exercise restriction, but there is no cure for the abnormal heart valve, except surgery. Signs of heart failure include difficulty breathing, distended abdomen, or exercise intolerance.
Should any of these signs develop or your pet begins to feel unwell, you should have him or her examined by a veterinarian. Despite treatments with medication and exercise restriction, the life expectancy for pets with either mitral or tricuspid valve dysplasia can be as short as 1-3 years, depending on the severity of the malformation.