A pleural rub is a grating and creaky sound heard when the pleural membranes rub against each other due to inflammation, indicating an inflammatory process in the chest. It can be associated with various medical conditions, and a doctor may need to order medical tests and imaging studies for diagnosis. Treatment options vary depending on the cause, and it is important to get treatment for breathing problems to avoid serious complications.
A pleural rub is a characteristic sound heard when auscultating the chest. It is caused by friction between the pleural membranes due to loss of lubrication and indicates that an inflammatory process is taking place inside the patient’s chest. The sounds can be indicative of a number of different medical conditions. Interviewing the patient and completing an exam can give the doctor more information to use in developing a diagnosis.
In healthy individuals, a layer of lubrication separates the pleural membranes, allowing them to move freely as the patient breathes. If the layer of lubrication shrinks or disappears due to inflammation, friction builds up and the pleural membranes rub or rub against each other. The sound of a pleural rub can vary, but is often grating and creaky. It is most evident when the patient inhales or exhales. When asked to take deep breaths, the patient’s pleural rub may be especially noticeable.
Squeaky sounds in the chest can also be associated with pericardial rub, in which the layers of tissue surrounding the heart become inflamed and rub against each other. To distinguish between the two noises, a doctor may ask a patient to hold their breath. If the sounds continue, they are caused by pericardial rub. If they stop, it means that they are caused by an inflammation of the pleural membranes.
Pleurisy or pleurisy, in which the pleura becomes inflamed, is a common cause of pleural rubs. These sounds can also be associated with pneumothorax, pneumonia, and other conditions involving the lungs. The doctor will also listen for breath sounds, take the patient’s temperature, listen to the heart, and perform other evaluations to gather data about the patient’s overall condition. Clusters of clinical signs associated with a pleural rub may indicate a diagnosis, or a doctor may need to order medical tests and imaging studies.
Conditions involving inflamed pleura can be serious for a patient. Treatment options vary depending on the cause, but may include anti-inflammatory drugs, medications such as antibiotics to kill infectious organisms, and respiratory treatments to help patients breathe more freely. It is important to get treatment for breathing problems. If left untreated, the patient can deteriorate rapidly and be at risk of serious complications. People with chronic respiratory disorders such as asthma are particularly vulnerable to complications from diseases involving the lungs and bronchial passages.
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