Gallavardin phenomenon

System: Heart & Circulation Signs · All heart & circulation signs

What it is — and how it is elicited

The murmur of aortic stenosis seems to split: harsh noise radiates to the neck while a musical, mitral-like murmur is heard at the apex.

What a positive finding suggests

Associated with aortic stenosis, especially calcific disease in older adults; the apex component can be mistaken for mitral regurgitation.

◈ Behind the name

Louis Gallavardin (1875–1957), French cardiologist.

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Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.