Ochronosis as an unusual cause of a valvular defect: a case report

INTRODUCTION: Alkaptonuria (also known as ochronosis) is a genetic disorder characterised by the accumulation of homogentisic acid deposits in connective tissue. In rare cases, ochronosis can cause valvular heart disease. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 68-year-old Caucasian man with alkaptonuria-associated degenerative valvular defects with aortic, mitral and tricuspid valve insufficiency. The patient did not have any cardiac complaints and was referred to our clinic for evaluation of a conspicuous new heart murmur. CONCLUSION: This case report shows that early diagnosis of cardiovascular ochronosis gives us the opportunity to use conservative treatment to slow down the progression of valvular dysfunction.