[Phonomechanographic evaluation of left ventricular function in hyperthyroid states].

Hyperthyroidism is associated with a hyperkinetic syndrome, the mechanisms of which are not fully understood but which include an increase in heart rate, a reduction in systemic arterial resistance and a debatable increase in myocardial contractility. The limitations of radioimmunological assay of the hormonal mediators underline the diagnostic value of an atraumatic method of quantifying left ventricular systolic function. In view of the variable sensitivity of phonomechanographic and echocardiographic indices with respect to changes in heart rate, pre- and after load, we studied apex cardiographic indices during the phase of isovolumetric contraction.

[Bacterial endocarditis and mitral valve prolapse].

The suspected diagnosis of bacterial endocarditis is based on a presumption. Over the last few years, ultrasound, which can identify valvular lesions and their repercussions, has established itself as a supplementary diagnostic tool in the early stages of this disease. The existence of false negatives should not be underestimated, but one must also be aware of the possibility of false positives.