Lung auscultation – Identification of common lung sound abnormalities and associated pathologies

Objective: The purpose of this review is to show the present state of art on breath sounds and lung auscultation, including normal and adventitious lung sounds, especially how they originate, and to which of the most common diseases they are related. Methods: The history of auscultation and the first stethoscope is presented, followed by the classification and description of physiologic lung sounds with regard to the lung regions where they should be heard and the sound characteristics. Added lung sounds, including their classification, distinction between continuous and discontinuous sound, as well as the presentation of the diseases most commonly associated with them are presented. Results: Since it may be found that breath sounds are difficult to understand it is reasonable to present a simple method of lung auscultation that may be helpful in the education of medical students. The usefulness of lung auscultation in diagnosing the most common diseases, with special regard to lung disorders, is of great importance. Discussion/Conclusion: The short and simple presentation of lung sound, auscultation methods and their application in clinical practice has been presented, and may be helpful for medical staff.