Bicuspid aortic valve is a defect of the valve between the left pumping chamber of the heart and the main artery that delivers
blood to the body. The valve has only 2 leaflets instead of the usual 3. This occurs when one leaflet fails to develop when
the heart is forming before birth.
Bicuspid aortic valve may also be caused by the joining together of 2 leaflets which results from a disease such as rheumatic
fever. This defect occurs in about 2 out of 1,000 babies.
How is bicuspid aortic valve diagnosed?
Bicuspid aortic valve may be diagnosed by a heart murmur. Other tests used to diagnose it include an electrocardiogram and
an echocardiogram.
Generally this condition does not have any noticeable effect on the heart during the early years. However, bicuspid aortic
valve may cause the valve leaflets to thicken. This thickening can interfere with the normal movement of the valve and cause
a narrowing at the opening of the valve. This usually occurs later in life but can develop at any time during childhood.
How is bicuspid aortic valve treated?
Most children do not require any treatment. Usually, physical activity is not restricted.
