Crepitusääneen

Crepitusääneen, commonly referred to as crepitus, is a medical term describing a cracking, popping, or grating sound or sensation that can be felt or heard in the body. It is most often associated with joints but can also occur in other tissues. The sound is typically produced by the movement of gas bubbles within the synovial fluid of joints, or by the rubbing of tissues against each other.

In joints, crepitus can arise from several factors. One common cause is the rapid release of dissolved gases in the joint fluid, creating small bubbles that collapse, producing a popping sound. This is often experienced when cracking knuckles. Another cause is the friction between roughened articular surfaces, which can occur in conditions like osteoarthritis where cartilage has worn away. This type of crepitus may be associated with pain and stiffness.

Crepitus can also be present in the lungs, where it is often described as crackles or rales. This sound is typically caused by the sudden opening of small airways or alveoli that have been collapsed by fluid, such as in pneumonia or pulmonary edema. In the skin, crepitus can be a sign of subcutaneous emphysema, where air or gas is trapped beneath the skin, often after trauma or surgery.

While crepitus can be a normal physiological phenomenon, especially in joints, its presence, particularly when accompanied by pain, swelling, or limited range of motion, warrants medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause. A healthcare professional may use physical examination, imaging techniques like X-rays, or other diagnostic tools to assess the situation.