What findings may lead to further diagnostic testing during a physical exam?

The presence of heart murmurs or unusual masses during a physical exam can indicate underlying health issues that warrant further investigation. Heart murmurs, which are abnormal sounds created by turbulent blood flow in the heart, may signify conditions such as valvular insufficiency, congenital heart defects, or cardiomyopathy. These sounds can lead a veterinarian to suspect potential cardiovascular problems that require more detailed diagnostic tests like echocardiograms or chest X-rays for a definitive diagnosis.

Similarly, the discovery of unusual masses during a physical examination may raise concern for tumors or other pathological conditions. These masses could be benign or malignant, and further diagnostic imaging, biopsies, or laboratory tests may be necessary to ascertain their nature and implications for treatment.

Normal heart sounds, clear lung sounds, and stable vital signs typically suggest that the animal may not have significant underlying health issues. While monitoring these parameters is essential for maintaining overall health, their absence of abnormality generally does not motivate additional diagnostic testing. In contrast, the findings of murmurs or masses suggest that further exploration is critical to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.