Portsmouth sign

Portsmouth sign is a clinical sign in medicine that indicates the presence of pneumothorax, a condition where air or gas is present in the cavity between the lungs and the chest wall. The sign is named after the city of Portsmouth, where it was first described.

Overview

The Portsmouth sign is a physical examination finding that is used to diagnose a pneumothorax. It is characterized by a decrease in the normal respiratory movement on the affected side of the chest. This is caused by the presence of air or gas in the pleural space, which prevents the lung from fully expanding during inhalation.

Clinical significance

The Portsmouth sign is a useful clinical tool for diagnosing a pneumothorax. It is particularly helpful in situations where imaging studies are not readily available. However, it is not a definitive diagnostic test and should be used in conjunction with other clinical findings and diagnostic tests.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a pneumothorax is typically confirmed with imaging studies such as a chest X-ray or CT scan. However, the Portsmouth sign can provide an early indication of a pneumothorax in some patients. The sign is best observed when the patient is sitting upright and breathing deeply. The examiner should observe the patient's chest for asymmetrical movement, with decreased movement on the affected side indicating a possible pneumothorax.

Treatment

The treatment for a pneumothorax depends on the severity of the condition. Small pneumothoraces may resolve on their own without treatment. Larger pneumothoraces may require the insertion of a chest tube to remove the air from the pleural space and allow the lung to re-expand.

See also

• Pneumothorax
• Clinical sign
• Chest tube

References

Portsmouth sign Resources
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