pericardial friction rub
A characteristic three-component scratching or grating sound heard during acute pericarditis, corresponding to atrial systole, ventricular systole, and ventricular diastole.
Full Definition
A pericardial friction rub is the pathognomonic auscultatory finding of acute pericarditis, created by the inflamed visceral and parietal pericardial surfaces rubbing against each other during cardiac motion. The classic triphasic rub includes presystolic (atrial), systolic (ventricular), and early diastolic components, though often only one or two phases are audible. Best heard with the diaphragm of the stethoscope at the left sternal border with the patient leaning forward, the rub may be intermittent and can disappear if significant pericardial effusion develops, separating the pericardial layers.
Usage
Usage note: Describe the number of components heard (mono-, bi-, or triphasic) when documenting.
In Context
- "A three-component pericardial friction rub was audible at the left sternal border." — Physical examination findings
- "The pericardial friction rub became more prominent when the patient leaned forward." — Cardiology examination note