Tympany

Tympany is a medical term that refers to the hollow, drum-like sound that is produced when a gas-filled cavity within the body, such as the stomach or intestines, is tapped. This sound is often heard during a physical examination when a healthcare provider taps on the patient's abdomen. Tympany is normal when it is heard over the stomach or intestines, but it may indicate a problem if it is heard in other areas of the body.

Causes

Tympany can be caused by a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal obstruction, pneumothorax, and pneumoperitoneum. It can also be a sign of ascites, a condition in which fluid accumulates in the abdomen.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of tympany is typically made during a physical examination. The healthcare provider will tap on different areas of the patient's abdomen and listen for the sound that is produced. If tympany is heard in an area where it is not normally present, further testing may be needed to determine the cause.

Treatment

The treatment for tympany depends on the underlying cause. If the tympany is due to a gastrointestinal obstruction, for example, the obstruction may need to be removed. If it is due to ascites, the fluid may need to be drained.

See also

• Percussion (medicine)
• Auscultation
• Physical examination

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