In rheumatic heart disease (RHD), the mitral valve leaflets are indeed more susceptible to immune-
mediated damage compared to other components of the heart, and this susceptibility is primarily due to
the unique anatomical and histological characteristics of the mitral valve leaflets.
Anatomical Factors:
The mitral valve consists of two leaflets, the anterior and posterior leaflets, which are thinner and more
delicate compared to the leaflets of other heart valves.
The mitral valve leaflets are also subjected to greater mechanical stress during the cardiac cycle,
particularly during ventricular contraction (systole), when they close to prevent the backflow of blood
into the left atrium.
Histological Composition:
The mitral valve leaflets are composed of connective tissue, including collagen and elastin fibers, as well
as endothelial cells and interstitial cells.
These tissues are potential targets for immune-mediated damage, as they express antigens that can be
recognized by antibodies and immune cells during an abnormal immune response, such as that seen in
rheumatic fever.
Localization of Inflammatory Response:
During rheumatic fever, the abnormal immune response triggered by Group A streptococcal infection
leads to the production of antibodies that cross-react with host tissues, including the mitral valve.
Inflammatory cells and mediators accumulate within the valve tissue, leading to inflammation, swelling,
and tissue damage, particularly in the leaflets where blood flow turbulence is greatest.
Hemodynamic Factors:
Turbulent blood flow across the mitral valve, especially in the setting of valve damage or inflammation,
can exacerbate tissue injury and promote the formation of valve lesions.
This turbulent flow, combined with the immune response, may contribute to preferential damage to the
mitral valve leaflets compared to other valve components.
Clinical Observations:
Clinically, mitral valve involvement is a common feature of rheumatic heart disease, with leaflet
thickening, fusion, and calcification frequently observed on echocardiography and during surgical
intervention.
Mitral valve regurgitation (leakage of blood backward through the valve) and stenosis (narrowing of the
valve opening) are common sequelae of rheumatic heart disease, reflecting the structural damage to the
leaflets.