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Common cardiac diseases in adolescents
1Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, USA.
Pediatric Clinics of North America
|December 24, 1997
Summary
Adolescent cardiovascular symptoms often stem from benign causes, not true heart disease. A thorough patient history is crucial for guiding further evaluation and management decisions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Adolescents commonly exhibit symptoms related to the cardiovascular system.
- True cardiovascular disease is infrequent in this demographic.
- Distinguishing benign symptoms from serious pathology is essential for appropriate care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the diagnostic approach for adolescents presenting with potential cardiovascular symptoms.
- To emphasize the role of patient history in clinical decision-making.
- To guide primary care physicians on when cardiology referral is indicated.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentation and diagnostic considerations for adolescent cardiovascular symptoms.
- Emphasis on detailed patient and family history taking.
- Correlation of historical data with physical examination and preliminary laboratory findings.
Main Results:
- Patient history is the most critical factor in determining the need for further cardiac evaluation.
- Most symptoms are benign, but anxiety may necessitate specialist referral.
- True cardiac pathology requires collaborative management between primary care and cardiology.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive history is paramount in evaluating adolescent cardiovascular symptoms.
- Primary care physicians can manage most cases, but judicious referral to cardiology is sometimes required.
- Collaborative care ensures optimal outcomes for adolescents with and without true cardiac conditions.