What is a common presentation of a mitral valve prolapse?

Mitral valve prolapse is commonly characterized by a distinct auscultatory finding known as a mid-systolic click. This occurs due to the abnormal displacement of the mitral valve leaflets into the left atrium during systole. The click itself is a result of the sudden tension on the chordae tendineae as the valve leaflets prolapse, which can also lead to an associated murmur due to resultant regurgitation.

This mid-systolic click is typically followed by a late systolic murmur if there is substantial mitral regurgitation present. The timing of the click can vary depending on the volume of the left ventricle; it can move earlier in the systolic phase if there is an increase in preload, and it's important to note that this feature can vary based on body position. This characteristic sound distinguishes mitral valve prolapse from other types of valvular heart disease, where alternative sounds such as opening snaps or ejection clicks may be more relevant.

In essence, the mid-systolic click is a classic auscultation finding in mitral valve prolapse and serves as an important diagnostic clue in the evaluation of patients with suspected valvular heart disease.