Intercostal retractions
Alternative names:
retractions of the chest muscles
Definition:
The inward movement of the muscles between the ribs as a result of reduced pressure in the chest cavity; usually a sign that the affected person is needing to work harder to breathe.
Considerations:
The chest wall is flexible, which allows for normal breathing. Cartilage that attaches the ribs to the sternum allows free movement of bony structures so that the rib cage can expand and contract. During breathing, the muscles between the ribs (intercostal muscles) contract and pull the rib cage upward while the diaphragm moves downward, thus increasing the volume of the chest cavity and causing air to be drawn into the lungs.
When the trachea (upper airway) becomes partially blocked so that air flow is restricted, the normal increase in chest cavity size reduces the pressure within the chest and the intercostal muscles are drawn inward, between the ribs. This inward retraction is a sign of airway obstruction. Intercostal retraction is more easily observed in infants and young children due to the increased flexibility, decreased strength and thinness of the thoracic wall musculature. Diseases or conditions that cause restriction of the airway will cause intercostal retraction.
Common causes:
Note: There may be other causes of intercostal retractions. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for intercostal retractions, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
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