mitral regurgitation, a backflow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium in systole across a diseased mitral valve. The condition may result from congenital valve abnormalities, rheumatic fever, mitral valve prolapse, endocardial fibroelastosis, myocarditis, myocardiopathy, or dilation of the left ventricle as a result of severe anemia. Symptoms include dyspnea, fatigue, intolerance of exercise, systolic murmur, and heart palpitations. Congestive heart failure may ultimately occur. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Surgery may be necessary in cases of refractory congestive heart failure, progressive cardiomegaly, and pulmonary hypertension. Also called mitral insufficiency. See also valvular heart disease.
