MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Percussion During the Liver Exam The purpose of liver percussion is to measure the liver size. Starting in the midclavicular line at about the 3rd intercostal space, lightly percuss and move down. Percuss inferiorly until dullness denotes the liver’s upper border (usually at 5th intercostal space in MCL).

Detailed explanation-2: -Tympany versus dullness Tympany is typically heard over air-filled structures such as the small intestine and the large intestine. Dullness is typically heard over fluid or solid organs such as the liver or spleen, which can be used to determine the margins of the liver and spleen.

Detailed explanation-3: -The span of liver dullness on percussion can be compared with established normal standards to detect hepatomegaly or alterations caused by cirrhosis. A systolic bruit, a friction rub, or a venous hum detected by auscultation over the liver is an important sign of liver disease.