Which physical examination finding is associated with atelectasis?

Which physical examination finding is associated with atelectasis?

• A. Dull percussion note
• B. Thrill on palpation
• C. Increased breath sounds
• D. Decreased heart rate

Answer: (A)

A dull percussion note is indeed associated with atelectasis due to the loss of air in the affected lung regions. When part of the lung collapses, the normal air-filled spaces become filled with fluid or solid material, which results in a dull sound during percussion. This change in sound reflects the density of the collapsed lung tissue, as opposed to the normal resonance found in healthy lung areas. Other physical examination findings that can indicate atelectasis include decreased breath sounds in the affected area and changes in the respiratory patterns. While increased breath sounds are generally associated with consolidation rather than atelectasis, the dullness on percussion specifically aligns with the denser nature of the affected lung segment in atelectasis. Therefore, recognizing a dull percussion note during a physical examination can be a key indicator of this condition, allowing for timely diagnosis and management.

A dull percussion note is indeed associated with atelectasis due to the loss of air in the affected lung regions. When part of the lung collapses, the normal air-filled spaces become filled with fluid or solid material, which results in a dull sound during percussion. This change in sound reflects the density of the collapsed lung tissue, as opposed to the normal resonance found in healthy lung areas.

Other physical examination findings that can indicate atelectasis include decreased breath sounds in the affected area and changes in the respiratory patterns. While increased breath sounds are generally associated with consolidation rather than atelectasis, the dullness on percussion specifically aligns with the denser nature of the affected lung segment in atelectasis. Therefore, recognizing a dull percussion note during a physical examination can be a key indicator of this condition, allowing for timely diagnosis and management.