DEVELOPMENT OF VALVE DYSFUNCTION IN ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG-ADULTS WITHDOWN-SYNDROME AND NO KNOWN CONGENITAL HEART-DISEASE

We performed examinations and echocardiographic studies in 35 patients with Down syndrome (aged 20 t 4.2 years) with no known intracardiac d isease. Sixteen patients (46%) had mitral valve prolapse; two of these also had tricuspid valve prolapse. Two had aortic regurgitation. Valv e regurgitation was present in 4 (17%) of 23 patients more than 18 yea rs of age but in none of the 12 patients 18 years of age or younger. W e recommend screening of adolescent and young adult patients with Down syndrome for the development of valve dysfunction, especially before dental or surgical procedures.