Bicuspid Aortic Valve in Children
Dr Naqvi is an expert in disorders of the aorta, including bicuspid aortic valve in children. She is the Paediatric Aortopathy Lead at the Royal Brompton Hospital and a member of the Pan London Aortopathy expert group.
Normal aorta – the tube lighting up red from the upper part of the heart.
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
What is a Bicuspid Aortic Valve?
A normal aortic valve has 3 leaflets and appears Y-shaped, rather like a Mercedes Benz sign. It guards the entrance to the aorta, the large blood vessel carrying oxygenated blood from the heart around the body.
Approximately 1-2% of the population has a bicuspid aortic valve, which has only 2 leaflets. While it often works normally, it can develop problems over time, such as narrowing (stenosis), leakage (regurgitation), or enlargement of the aorta (aneurysm).
Symptoms
The majority of children with bicuspid aortic valve will have no symptoms.
If severe narrowing or leakage develops, symptoms such as shortness of breath, failure to gain weight, chest pain, or fainting could occur, though this is uncommon in childhood.
Diagnosis
A clinical examination will usually reveal a heart murmur. An echocardiogram is used to diagnose the condition. Dr Naqvi uses the latest high-tech, high-definition echocardiography machines for precise imaging. An ECG and chest X-ray may also be performed. If needed, a CT or MRI scan may be requested to check for enlargement of the aorta.
Treatment
A bicuspid valve with no significant narrowing or leakage requires no treatment. Severe cases may require surgical intervention. Moderate leakage (regurgitation) is often managed with medication such as ACE inhibitors (e.g., Captopril or Lisinopril) or diuretics.
Note: Dr Naqvi works with an internationally renowned team of audited congenital cardiac surgeons and interventionalists to provide the best care for your child’s heart.
Prognosis
The outlook for children with a bicuspid valve is excellent in the vast majority of cases. Dr Naqvi says: “Having a bicuspid aortic valve does not stop children doing well in sports or from having a happy full life. I know many who are athletes and academic high achievers.”
A famous example of someone with a bicuspid aortic valve is Arnold Schwarzenegger.
External Resources
Surgical Excellence
Expert surgical teams for congenital heart conditions.