ABSTRACT
Physical examination of the chest remains important despite the availability of advanced diagnostic techniques for the management of patients with pulmonary disease. One of the most important reasons for physical examination is to decide whether other testing or therapeutic measures are indicated. This importance varies with the circumstances in which the examination is done: the acutely ill, the chronically ill, or the apparently normal patient. Its importance and urgency also vary with the setting and the suspected illness. For example, physical assessment can be crucial in the detection of upper airway obstruc tion but is unlikely to be of value in the detection of lung cancer.
