Pattern of rheumatic heart disease in adults in Maiduguri--north east Nigeria.

The pattern of rheumatic heart disease in 84 adolescent and adult patients seen over a 9 year period (1982-1990) at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) is presented. Over 70% were in second and third decades of life. Pure mitral incompetence and mixed mitral valve disease were the commonest valvular lesions. This pattern appears similar to those in other developing countries. Congestive cardiac failure was the commonest complication. Declining economic fortunes of the developing countries, over crowding, malnutrition and inadequate medical facilities may further perpetuate the condition. Early recognition and the management of rheumatic carditis and early valvular lesions will reduce the morbidity and mortality.