428 diseases of the respiratory organs. 



Application of these Physical M(jdes of Examination — 

 Signs Afforded by them. 



It will probably suffice for our purpose of understanding 

 what these methods of physical examination tell us in investi- 

 gating the phenomena of disease of the respiratory organs, and 

 particularly of those contained in the thorax, to regard them 

 in somewhat of the same order as their description has been 

 glanced at. 



L signs afforded by inspection and palpation. 



These modes of physical examination are chiefly applicable 

 to the condition of the chest proper ; by these we determine 

 its character as to size, shape, and movements. Any alteration 

 which may be observable in the simple size or shape of the 

 chest in the larger animals is so trifling that it may be safely 

 passed as a source from which information may be obtained as 

 to the condition of the contained viscera. No doubt there are 

 some cases in certain of our patients suffering from pneumonic 

 disease, with effusion of long standing, where an alteration in 

 form of one side of the chest may sometimes be detected ; but 

 in the horse there is little information of a positive character 

 to be obtained from change of form in such conditions. 



As respects the movements of the thorax, we are able, by 

 inspection, assisted by palpation, to take into consideration 

 many of their relations. 



1. Alterations in Frequency. — The respirations may be watched 

 by the eye, or counted by placing the hand over the false ribs. 

 Their frequency may be (a) increased, as in certain febrile 

 affections, Avhen obstruction occurs to the action of the lungs, 

 or in some diseases of the heart ; (h) diminished, seen in 

 certain diseases of the brain, and from the action of narcotics. 



2. Disturbance of Relation between the Thoracic and Abdominal 

 Movements. — (a) Thoracic movements in excess from any inter- 

 ference directly with the action of the diaphragm or abdominal 

 muscles, as in peritonitis, and other structural changes con- 

 nected with the abdomen ; (h) abdominal movements in excess 

 from causes impeding or rendering painful the action of the 

 chest-walls, as in pleurisy. 



