A STUDY OF SYPHILIS OF THE AORTA AND AORTIC VALVE AREA

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
70 cases of syphilitic aortic insufficiency are reported, 41 of which came to autopsy. The ratio of [male][male] to [female][female]in the entire series was 6:1. 53 were colored; 17 were white. The avg. age was 46, with extremes between 28 and 64. The avg. interval between primary infection and the onset of symptoms was 22 yrs. Dyspnea on exertion was the most common presenting symptom. Paroxysmal dyspnea and pain were rare. Increased heart size was noted in 93%. The avg. duration of symptoms before medical attention was sought was 10 mos., the shortest 2 wks., and the longest 5 yrs. Edema of the ankles was present in 40% upon first examination. A typical to-and-fro murmur was present in 87%. A loud musical diastolic murmur and thrill was present in 5 cases. The avg. pulse pressure was 84 mm. of Hg. A positive Wassermann reaction occurred in 85%. Fluoroscopic appearance was discussed, and the absence of noteworthy features in the electrocardiogram stressed.

This publication has 1 reference indexed in Scilit: