High Yield Terms in Examination of the Cardiovascular System

Question 1

At least 10 second pressure over the upper abdomen (RUQ)

Positive response: sustained rise of >3 cm in JVP for at least 10-15 seconds after release of the hand

Answer 1

Abdominojugular Reflux

Question 2

Pansystolic murmur of tricuspid regurgitation

Louder during inspiration and diminishes during forced expiration

Answer 2

Carvallo’s Sign

Question 3

High-pitched, diastolic, decrescendo blowing murmur along the left sternal border due to dilation of the pulmonary valve ring; occurs in mitral valve disease and severe pulmonary hypertension

Answer 3

Graham Steell Murmur

Question 4

Condition where the murmur of aortic stenosis may be transmitted downward and to the apex and may be confused with the systolic murmur of mitral regurgitation

Answer 4

Gallavardin Effect

Question 5

Apical pulse is reduced and may retract in systole in constrictive pericarditis

Answer 5

Broadbent’s Sign