User:Mr. Ibrahem/Bicuspid aortic valve

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is a form of heart disease in which the aortic valve has two-leaflets (bicuspid) instead of the normal three-leaflet (tricuspid). Initially there are generally no symptoms. A heart murmur may be heard. Over time complications may include thoracic aortic aneurysm, which occurs in half of people; aortic dissection; aortic stenosis or regurgitation; infective endocarditis; heart failure; and sudden death.

It may be inherited from a person's parents, often in an autosomal dominant manner; though may also occur spontaneously. Around 15% of cases occur within families. It may occur as part of a number of syndromes including DiGeorge, Marfan, and Turner syndrome. The underlying mechanism involves failure of two leaflets to separate during early development. Diagnosis is generally by ultrasound of the heart. Medical imaging of the upper aorta is recommended to rule out complications. First-degree relatives should be tested for the condition.

If initial imaging does not show any complications, further imaging should occur every 5 to 10 years. Among those with an aortic aneurysm excise should be limited and surgery may be recommended before pregnancy. Surgery is generally recommended if the aorta is over 5.0 cm to 5.5 cm. If surgery to repair the valve is required, replacement of the thoracic aorta may take place if it is greater than 4.0 cm to 4.5 cm.

Bicuspid aortic valve is the most common heart disease present at birth, affecting approximately 1.5% of people. It occurs three times more often in males than females. Sir William Osler first described the condition in 1886.