What Causes a Pleural Rub

Pleural friction rub occurs when inflammation roughens the surfaces of the visceral and parietal pleura. In this setting, friction between the pleura further increases due to decreased production of lubricating fluid (pleural fluid) by the pleura.

What causes pleural rub lung sounds?

Pleural rubs are common in pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, and pleurisy. Because these sounds occur whenever the patient’s chest wall moves, they appearon inspiration and expiration. Pleural friction rub occurs when the two layers of tissue become inflamed or if they lose the lubrication between them.

How do you diagnose a pleural rub?

It is noted by listening to the internal sounds of the body, usually using a stethoscope on the lungs. Pleural friction rubs are the squeaking or grating sounds of the pleural linings rubbing together and can be described as the sound made by treading on fresh snow.