Which of the following is a potential consequence of mitral valve prolapse?

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) can lead to a variety of complications, one of the most notable being arrhythmias. In individuals with MVP, the abnormal shape or function of the mitral valve can disrupt the normal electrical conduction pathways of the heart. This disruption can result in various types of arrhythmias, ranging from benign palpitations to more serious conditions like atrial fibrillation.

Arrhythmias in patients with mitral valve prolapse are often attributed to the stretching of the heart valves and the accompanying changes in heart structure and function. These irregular heartbeats may not always result in symptoms but can sometimes lead to complications, particularly if they affect the heart’s pumping efficiency or lead to other cardiovascular issues.

While it is true that other choices like myocardial infarction, stroke, and aortic dissection can occur in patients with heart conditions, they are not directly linked as common or significant consequences of mitral valve prolapse itself. These conditions typically arise from more severe heart disease or other risk factors rather than from MVP alone. Hence, the most directly associated complication of mitral valve prolapse is the development of arrhythmias.