History and Physical Examination in Pediatric Cardiology: History and Physical Examination

This chapter reviews the pediatric cardiac history and physical examination. A thorough history and physical examination remain the cornerstone of diagnosis in children with suspected cardiovascular disease even in this era where there is ever-increasing reliance on advanced imaging techniques and laboratory tests. An accurate diagnosis can often be made or the differential diagnosis vastly narrowed solely through the history and physical examination. This chapter uses a format describing components of the physical examination with inclusion of underlying basic science or evidence as applicable. This is followed by examples to underscore the pertinence of the history or physical findings. We also include information regarding electronic medical record and the application of telemedicine into the discussion.