Science Fair Project Encyclopedia
Kussmaul's sign
Kussmaul's sign is the observation of a jugular venous pressure (JVP, the filling of the jugular vein) that rises with inspiration. It can be seen in some forms of heart disease.
Background
Ordinarily the JVP falls with inspiration due to reduced pressure in the expanding thoracic cavity. Kussmaul's sign suggests impaired filling of the right ventricle due to either fluid in the pericardial space or a poorly compliant myocardium or pericardium.
Causes
Possible causes of Kussmaul's sign include:
- Cardiac tamponade (rare)
- Constrictive pericarditis
- Restrictive cardiomyopathy
- Right ventricular infarction
History
Kussmaul's sign is named after the German doctor who first described it, Adolph Kussmaul (1822-1902) [1]. He is also credited with describing Kussmaul breathing.
Last updated: 05-22-2005 03:36:49
10-26-2009 08:16:03
The contents of this article is licensed from www.wikipedia.org under the GNU Free Documentation License. Click here to see the transparent copy and copyright details
The contents of this article is licensed from www.wikipedia.org under the GNU Free Documentation License. Click here to see the transparent copy and copyright details