Vertebral heart score (VHS)

• View:
  Lateral
  
  
• Defining characteristics:
  Enlargement of cardiac size based on measurement of the axes of the heart against the thoracic vertebrae
  
  
• Common differential diagnoses:
  Cardiomyopathy, Valvular disease, pericardial disease, Congenital disease
  
  
• Helpful additional data:
  History of cough or collapse?Evidence of LAE or CHF?
  
  
• Commonly associated diagnostics:
  Consider thoracic ultrasound if available
  
  
• Commonly associated treatments:
  Possible diuretics or other cardiac Rx
  
  
• Commonly associated home care:
  Rx, monitor for coughing, collapse, and labored breathing.