ATI Pathophysiology Exam Related

Review ATI Pathophysiology Exam related questions and content

A client with a history of rheumatic fever presents with signs of heart failure. What is the likely underlying cause?

  • A. Infective endocarditis
  • B. Coronary artery disease
  • C. Mitral valve stenosis
  • D. Aortic regurgitation
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Mitral valve stenosis. Rheumatic fever can lead to scarring and thickening of the heart valves, often affecting the mitral valve. This stenosis can impede blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, eventually causing heart failure. Choice A, infective endocarditis, is an infection of the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves, and is not directly related to rheumatic fever. Choice B, coronary artery disease, involves the obstruction of coronary arteries supplying the heart muscle with blood, leading to ischemia and not typically associated with rheumatic fever. Choice D, aortic regurgitation, is the backflow of blood from the aorta to the left ventricle and is not a common consequence of rheumatic fever.