Evaluation of the systolic murmur in the elderly.

ABSTRACT

A common clinical entity in the elderly population is the systolic murmur detected during cardiac auscultation. Although it can occur in patients of any age group, the approach to diagnosis differs in the elderly. Two cases are presented which illustrate different pathologic processes that can result in the development of a systolic murmur. The prevalence of this entity in the elderly is highlighted, and a strategy for diagnosis is outlined.