Castell's sign
Castell's sign is a medical term used in the field of abdominal examinations. It is a physical examination maneuver that is used to detect splenomegaly, or an enlarged spleen.
Pronunciation
The term is pronounced as "ka-stellz sign".
Etymology
The term is named after the American physician, Donald O. Castell, who first described the sign in 1967.
Description
Castell's sign is a physical examination maneuver wherein the examiner percusses the lowest intercostal space in the left anterior axillary line. The area is percussed while the patient takes a deep breath and holds it. If the percussion note changes from tympany to dull on inspiration, Castell's sign is considered positive, indicating splenomegaly.
Related Terms
- Splenomegaly: An enlargement of the spleen.
- Percussion: A method of tapping body parts with fingers, hands, or small instruments as part of a physical examination.
- Anterior axillary line: A line drawn vertically along the surface of the body passing through the anterior axillary fold.
- Physical examination: The process by which a medical professional investigates the body of a patient for signs of disease.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Castell's sign
- Wikipedia's article - Castell's sign
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