Mitral valve replacement in systemic lupus erythematosus associated Libman-Sacks endocarditis

Libman-Sacks endocarditis, first discovered in 1924, is a cardiac manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus [SLE]. Valvular involvement has been associated with SLE and antiphospholipid syndrome [APS]. Mitral valve, especially its posterior leaflet, is most commonly involved. We report a case of a 34 year old woman with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and SLE, who presented with mitral valve regurgitation. The patient underwent a prosthetic mitral valve replacement, with no followup complications. We suggest mechanical valve replacement employment in the management of mitral regurgitation in Libman- Sacks endocarditis, in view of the recent medical literature and our own case report