n CME : Your SA Journal of CPD - The recognition and management of valvular heart disease : main topic

Abstract

The classification of heart murmurs into systole or diastole is the first step in assessing a murmur. Thereafter, certain manoeuvres will assist in identifying certain conditions. Risk assessment is done to try to distinguish between a relatively 'benign' and relatively 'dangerous' murmur. Prophylactic measures, mainly antibiotics, should be considered.