A 51-year-old member asked:
Are heart valve abnormalities classified as birth defects?
3 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in

Dr. Kevin Windischanswered
Pediatrics 26 years experience
Yes: If the valvular abnormalities are present from birth, then they are birth defects.
6.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Robert Kwokanswered
Pediatrics 34 years experience
Yes: Children's heart valve abnormalities are classified as birth defects if the abnormalities were present at birth, which is the usual case. A person can get a heart valve defect later, such as due to infection or trauma.
6.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. James Chapmananswered
Cardiology 42 years experience
Some: A bicuspid aortic valve or a prolapsing mitral valve are present from birth. Many other heart valve abnormalities are acquired, either through scarring from infection, calcium deposition, or mal-apposition due to dilatation of cardiac chambers, among other things.
4.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 29-year-old member asked:
What causes birth defects of the heart?
3 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in

A Verified Doctoranswered
31 years experience
Several factors: The heart develops rather early so medication exposure in the first trimester can sometimes cause heart problems. Chromosomal or genetic issues also can cause heart problems, .
6.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Aug 14, 2013
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.