Characteristics of pathologic murmurs include a sound level of grade 3 or louder, a diastolic murmur or an increase in intensity when the patient is standing. Most children with any of these findings should be referred to a pediatric cardiologist.

Which murmur is always pathological?

Diastolic murmurs are always a pathological finding on the auscultation of the heart, indicating the presence of a valvular abnormality. The physical exam can, by itself, reveal the cause of a diastolic murmur.

Are all murmurs pathologic?

Heart murmurs are common in healthy infants, children, and adolescents. Although most are not pathologic, a murmur may be the sole manifestation of serious heart disease.