Which valve is most commonly affected in rheumatic heart disease?

Rheumatic heart disease primarily affects the mitral valve due to the immunological response triggered by streptococcal infections, particularly rheumatic fever. The condition leads to valvular damage through inflammation and scarring of the heart valves, with the mitral valve being the most susceptible due to its anatomical position and mechanical stress during the cardiac cycle.

The mitral valve, located between the left atrium and left ventricle, experiences significant changes during each heartbeat, making it prone to the rheumatic process. Over time, this can result in complications such as stenosis (narrowing of the valve) or regurgitation (incompetence of the valve), leading to heart failure or other cardiac issues.

While other valves may occasionally be involved, the frequency and impact of mitral valve involvement make it the hallmark of rheumatic heart disease. In contrast, the aortic, pulmonary, and tricuspid valves are less frequently affected in this context, making the mitral valve the primary focus in the study and management of rheumatic heart disease.