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Litten's phenomenon
System: Chest & Breathing Signs · All chest & breathing signs
What it is — and how it is elicited
The movement of the diaphragm seen as a shadow sweeping down the side of the chest wall in good light when the patient breathes deeply; it may be absent or reduced.
What a positive finding suggests
Reduction is associated with diaphragmatic weakness or paralysis.
◈ Behind the name
Moritz Litten (1845–1907), German physician.
Related signs — Chest & Breathing Signs
Browse the L 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.