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Barrel chest
System: Chest & Breathing Signs · All chest & breathing signs
What it is — and how it is elicited
The chest is rounded front-to-back, with a diameter approaching that from side to side, like a barrel.
What a positive finding suggests
Associated with hyperinflation of the lungs in emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Related signs — Chest & Breathing Signs
Browse the B section of the A–Z list or return to the Clinical Signs hub.
Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.