1.10 : 呼吸器系の異常所見 I: 検査と打診

Inspection and percussion methods of examination help detect respiratory system abnormalities.

Abnormalities detected during the inspection include the following.

Pursed-lip breathing, commonly seen in asthma patients, indicates increased dyspnea.

The 'tripod position' or inability to lie flat often signals moderate to severe respiratory distress.

Accessory muscle use, observed in conditions like COPD, indicates severe respiratory distress.

Increased anterior-posterior diameter occurs when the chest's anterior-posterior diameter equals the lateral diameter, which is caused by COPD or asthma.

Cyanosis, usually seen in mucous membranes and skin and finger clubbing, a bulbous enlargement of the nail beds, indicates chronic hypoxemia.

The abdominal paradox is the inward movement of the abdomen during inspiration seen in severe respiratory distress.

Next, the abnormalities detected during percussion include:

Hyperresonance, a low-pitched sound. It indicates conditions like pneumothorax or asthma.

Dullness, a medium-pitched sound. It denotes increased density or fluid in the pleural space, indicating pneumonia, atelectasis, or pleural effusion.