Squamous cell carcinoma of the lung physical examination

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Maria Fernanda Villarreal, M.D. [2]

Physical examination findings of squamous cell carcinoma of the lung will depend on the location of the tumor. Non-small cell lung cancer with central location may cause crackling sounds, focal wheezing, voice hoarseness, and tachypnea. Peripheral location can present with pleurisy findings, such as reduced chest expansion. Common physical examination of patients with squamous cell carcinoma include crackling or bubbling noises, decreased/absent breath sounds, and whispered pectoriloquy.

• The following physical examination findings may be present among patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the lung:^[1]

• Well-appearing
• Older age in relation to chronological age
• Lethargic
• Confused

• Low-grade fever
• Decreased SPO2
• Tachypnea
• Tachycardia

Inspection

• Performed in the anterior chest/posterior chest
• Hoarseness
• Rapid rate of breathing

Auscultation

• Present pleural friction rub
• Present egophony
• Crackling or bubbling noises
• Present whispered pectoriloquy
• Decreased/absent breath sounds

Percussion

• Hyporesonance
• Dull percussion
• Tactile fremitus
• Reduced chest expansion

• Hepatomegaly

• Palpable soft-tissue mass

• Pallor
• Acanthosis nigricans

• Lymphadenopathy

• Slurred speech
• Confusion

• Clubbing of fingers
• Swelling of hands and feet
• Weakness

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