Pertussis physical examination

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Govindavarjhulla, M.B.B.S. [2];

The physical examination of a patient with pertussis is usually unremarkable. Low grade fever, cyanosis, and conjunctival hemorrhages may be observed. Involvement of the lower respiratory tract indicates another underlying or concomitant process.

• The physical examination of a patient with pertussis is usually unremarkable.
• It may help rule out other upper or lower respiratory tract infections.

• Patients with pertussis usually appear ill.^[1]
• Exhaustion is common due to the intensity of coughing paroxysms and potential vomiting fits.

• Low grade fever is often present in pertussis patients during the catarrhal stage.^[1]
• Fever is usually absent in most patients at the time of presentation (usually in paroxysmal stage)

• Cyanosis can be present due to the intense coughing. ^[2]
• Bruising can occur due to the coughing paroxysms.

• Conjunctival hemorrhages may secondary to the violent coughing spasms.^[1]

• Lungs are usually clear, signs of lower tract infection in not consistent with pertussis and may indicate another concomitant or underlying process.

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