During an examination, a patient has increased tactile fremitus over the right lower lobe. Which one of the following conditions corresponds with this?
Understand the Problem
The question describes a clinical finding (increased tactile fremitus in the right lower lobe) during a physical examination and asks you to identify the condition most likely responsible for this finding. Tactile fremitus refers to the vibration felt on the chest wall when a patient speaks, indicating sound transmission through the lung tissue.
Answer
Pneumonia
Increased tactile fremitus over the right lower lobe typically corresponds to conditions that consolidate the lung tissue, such as pneumonia.
Answer for screen readers
Increased tactile fremitus over the right lower lobe typically corresponds to conditions that consolidate the lung tissue, such as pneumonia.
More Information
Tactile fremitus is the vibration felt on the chest wall during speech. Increased tactile fremitus indicates denser or consolidated lung tissue, which transmits vibrations more readily. Pneumonia, particularly lobar pneumonia, is a common cause due to the consolidation of lung tissue from inflammation and fluid.
Tips
A common mistake is associating increased tactile fremitus with conditions that obstruct airflow, such as emphysema or asthma, which typically decrease tactile fremitus.
Sources
- Tactile Fremitus: What Is It, How Is It Assessed - Osmosis - osmosis.org
- Fremitus - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com
- Diagnostic value of the physical examination in patients with dyspnea - ccjm.org
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