The answer is D. Right ventricular dilatation
Right ventricular dilatation is the most common cause of tricuspid regurgitation. It occurs due to the stretching of the tricuspid annulus, which prevents the valve leaflets from coapting properly, leading to regurgitation. Conditions that cause right ventricular dilatation include left-sided heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and right ventricular infarction.
Incorrect Answer Explanations:
A. Congenital heart disease
While congenital heart disease can cause tricuspid regurgitation, it is not the most common etiology. Congenital defects such as Ebstein anomaly can affect the tricuspid valve, but they are relatively rare compared to other causes.
B. Rheumatic heart disease
Rheumatic heart disease primarily affects the mitral and aortic valves. It can involve the tricuspid valve, but this is less common. When it does affect the tricuspid valve, it usually results in stenosis rather than regurgitation.
C. Endocarditis
Endocarditis can lead to tricuspid regurgitation, especially in intravenous drug users. However, it is not the most common cause. The regurgitation results from destruction of the valve leaflets or the supporting structures.
E. Carcinoid syndrome
Carcinoid syndrome can lead to tricuspid regurgitation due to the deposition of fibrous plaques on the tricuspid valve leaflets, causing them to become rigid and unable to close properly. However, this is a rare cause of tricuspid regurgitation compared to right ventricular dilatation.
View blueprint lesson
