Spectrum analysis of cardiovascular time series

The demand for noninvasive assessment of cardiovascular control parameters has promoted the use of spectrum analysis. These techniques have been applied on a broad basis; however, because of the abstract mathematical approach, spectrum analysis in physiology is still not fully accepted by some circles in the scientific community. Thus it is the goal of the following review to focus on the rationale for applying spectrum analysis in different fields of circulation research, which range from determining arterial baroreceptor reflex sensitivity to the early detection of heart allograft rejection. Within this scope, major findings regarding the physiological and pathophysiological regulation of the cardiovascular system are discussed. In addition, inherent limitations of these methods are made clear. Toward the end of this survey, a perspective is provided for the general readership.