Question

Fish mouth appearance of valve in RHD is due to:

• A. Rupture of valve
• B. Calcification & fibrosis
• C. Hypertrophy of ventricular wall
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

In the context of rheumatic heart disease (RHD), the "fish mouth" appearance of the heart valve is primarily caused by structural changes due to chronic inflammation and tissue damage.

This leads to:

• Calcification: The valve leaflets become stiff and less pliable due to calcium deposits, which is a common outcome of prolonged inflammation.
• Fibrosis: The valve tissues undergo thickening and scarring due to the fibrotic process, further contributing to the characteristic appearance.

These pathological changes restrict the opening of the valve, causing the distinct "fish mouth" or "buttonhole" appearance specifically associated with mitral stenosis in RHD. Thus, the correct answer is:

Calcification & fibrosis