Diagnosis
There are many diagnostic tests that have abnormal results in the presence of MR. These tests suggest the diagnosis of MR and may indicate to the physician that further testing is warranted. For instance, the electrocardiogram (ECG) in long-standing MR may show evidence of left atrial enlargement and left ventricular dilatation. Atrial fibrillation may also be noted on the ECG in individuals with chronic mitral regurgitation. The ECG may not show any of these findings in the setting of acute MR. The quantification of MR usually employs imaging studies such as echocardiography or magnetic resonance angiography of the heart. Chest X-ray
The chest X-ray in individuals with chronic MR is characterized by enlargement of the left atrium and the left ventricle, and then maybe calcification of the mitral valve. Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is commonly used to confirm the diagnosis of MR. Color doppler flow on the transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) will reveal a jet of blood flowing from the left ventricle into the left atrium during ventricular systole. Also, it may detect a dilated left atrium and ventricle and decreased left ventricular function. A transesophageal echocardiogram can give clearer images if needed as the back of the heart can also be viewed. Electrocardiography
P mitrale is a broad, bifid notched P wave in several or many leads with a prominent late negative component to the P wave in lead V1, and may be seen in MR, but also in mitral stenosis, and, potentially, any cause of overload of the left atrium.
These include:
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Flatulence
Diarrhea
Fullness after a meal
Fatty stools (steatorrhea)
Unintentional weight loss
Generalised weaknessAs a result of the concomitant vitamin and mineral deficiencies that occur as a result of the malabsorption associated with BLS patients with advanced cases should be investigated for:
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Folate deficiency
Iron deficiency
Vitamin E deficiency

Causes
Blind loop syndrome is a complication of surgical operations of the abdomen, as well as inflammatory bowel disease or scleroderma. Another cause is jejunoileal diverticula. Pathophysiology
The overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine is prevented by various mechanical and chemical factors which include the constant peristaltic movement of contents along the length of the gastrointestinal tract and the antibacterial properties of gastric secretions, pancreatic secretions and bile.It follows that a disruption of any of these factors could lead to bacterial overgrowth and indeed BLS has been found to occur in persons with anatomical anomalies that result in stagnation. BLS has also been associated with achlorhydria, dysmotility, fistulae, and strictures. Chronic or high dose opioid therapy may contribute to BLS by reducing gastric motility.Due to the disruption of digestive processes by the overgrowth of intestinal bacteria; malabsorption of bile salts, fat and fat-soluble vitamins, protein and carbohydrates results in damage to the mucosal lining of the intestine by bacteria or via the production of toxic metabolites. Diagnosis
A physical examination may reveal a mass or distention of the abdomen.Tests which may be useful for diagnosis include:
Abdominal x-ray
Abdominal CT scan
Contrast enema study

Treatment
The treatment of BLS follows two basic principles.