What primary condition is associated with a positive S3 sound?

The primary condition associated with a positive S3 sound is congestive heart failure (CHF). The S3 heart sound, also known as the "ventricular gallop," occurs when there is rapid filling of the ventricles during the early diastolic phase. This sound is indicative of increased volume in the ventricles and can be a sign of high cardiac filling pressures, which is often seen in CHF.

In a patient with CHF, the heart struggles to pump effectively, leading to volume overload and resulting in the characteristic S3 sound detected during auscultation. The presence of this sound can be an important clinical indicator that helps healthcare providers assess the likelihood of heart failure and the patient's overall hemodynamic status.

Other conditions listed, such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and pulmonary embolism, may have their own distinct auscultatory findings but are not primarily characterized by a positive S3 sound. Understanding the link between the S3 sound and CHF is essential for recognizing heart failure in patients and determining appropriate management strategies.