Accuracy of the physical examination in evaluating pleural effusion

Abstract

A careful physical examination is a valuable and noninvasive means of assessing pleural effusion and should be routinely performed in every patient in whom this condition is suspected. Although physical examination is less accurate than ultrasonography or computed tomography in detecting a pleural effusion, the sensitivity and specificity of the different physical signs of pleural effusion may be comparable to those of conventional chest radiography.

Bad medicine: chest examination

“…1 Some studies report 100% specificity or sensitivity-values that don't seem plausible. 2 The most useful clinical sign of careful observation is a mere footnote.…”