Congenital Aortic Tricuspid Valve Abnormalities and Fitness for Police Academy - Cardiology

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Congenital aortic trileaflet valve anomaly


Hello Doctor, I have a congenital abnormality of the aortic trileaflet valve, specifically an underdeveloped tricuspid valve, which leads to incomplete closure and results in a heart murmur.
However, I have not experienced any palpitations, chest tightness, or discomfort throughout my life, and I have participated in several marathons without any issues or problems.
I only discovered the heart murmur during a routine health check.

I am currently undergoing a physical examination for admission to a police academy, which has strict regulations stating that individuals with congenital heart disease, cardiovascular diseases, heart valve diseases, or vascular diseases are disqualified.
However, if a cardiologist from a medical center issues a diagnostic certificate stating that there are no abnormalities in heart function or structure, and that I am capable of participating in physical training such as judo, swimming, and 3000-meter running, I may be deemed qualified.

Given my situation, do you think I can pass the examination and be admitted to the police academy? Below are the findings from my echocardiogram:
M-MODE & 2-D FINDINGS:
- Bicuspid aortic valve without significant aortic stenosis
- Normal left ventricular (LV) systolic function without cardiac chamber dilation
- Estimated left ventricular ejection fraction about 63%
DOPPLER/COLOR FLOW FINDINGS:
- Effective aortic valve area by continuity equation about 3.5 cm²
- Pressure gradient (PG) profile across the aortic valve: mean PG = 6 mmHg, peak PG = 14 mmHg
- Doppler Velocity Index (DVI) = 0.61
- Trivial mitral regurgitation (MR), mild aortic regurgitation (AR), mild tricuspid regurgitation (TR), mild pulmonary regurgitation (PR)
- Peak systolic pressure gradient across tricuspid valve 25 mmHg
- Estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP): 30 mmHg
Thank you, Doctor, for your response.
I appreciate it.

Chen Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/21

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology


Hello, I personally believe there is no issue, but the regulations are rigid and depend on how the military service unit interprets them.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/06/21

More Info


Understanding congenital heart conditions, such as aortic and tricuspid valve abnormalities, is crucial, especially when considering fitness for physically demanding roles like those in a police academy. Your situation involves a congenital abnormality of the tricuspid valve, which is characterized by incomplete development leading to insufficient closure and resultant heart murmurs. However, it's noteworthy that you have not experienced any symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, or discomfort throughout your life, and you have successfully completed marathons without any issues.
From a medical standpoint, the echocardiogram findings you provided indicate that you have a bicuspid aortic valve without significant aortic stenosis, normal left ventricular (LV) systolic function, and no cardiac chamber dilation. The estimated left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of about 63% is within normal limits, suggesting that your heart is functioning adequately. The effective aortic valve area and pressure gradients across the aortic valve are also within acceptable ranges, indicating that there is no significant obstruction to blood flow. The presence of trivial mitral regurgitation (MR), mild aortic regurgitation (AR), mild tricuspid regurgitation (TR), and mild pulmonic regurgitation (PR) is generally not concerning in the absence of symptoms or significant hemodynamic compromise.

Regarding your fitness for the police academy, the key factors to consider are the specific requirements and standards set by the academy, as well as the recommendations of your healthcare provider. Since the academy has strict guidelines regarding congenital heart disease and cardiovascular conditions, obtaining a comprehensive evaluation from a cardiologist is essential. If the cardiologist can provide a statement confirming that your heart function and structure are normal and that you are capable of engaging in rigorous physical training (such as judo, swimming, and running), this will significantly bolster your case for passing the medical examination.

It is also important to consider the potential for increased physical demands during training. While your current condition appears stable and you have demonstrated the ability to engage in endurance activities, the stress of police training may present new challenges. Therefore, it is advisable to maintain regular follow-ups with your cardiologist, especially if you start any new training regimen or if you experience any changes in your health status.

In summary, based on the information provided, it seems plausible that you could pass the medical examination for the police academy, provided you have a supportive evaluation from a cardiologist. This evaluation should confirm that your heart condition does not impede your ability to perform the physical requirements of the academy. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your aspirations and any concerns you may have, ensuring that you are making informed decisions about your health and career path. Good luck with your endeavors, and remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular medical check-ups will be beneficial as you pursue your goals.

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