midtklavikulærlinje

midtklavikulærlinje, known in English as the midclavicular line, is an anatomical reference line used in clinical medicine to describe positions on the chest. It is defined on each side of the body as a vertical line that passes through the midpoint of the clavicle and extends downward over the thorax. The lines run parallel to the midline of the body and divide the anterior chest into medial and lateral regions.

Location and purpose: The midpoint of the clavicle determines each midclavicular line. In clinical practice the left midclavicular line is a common reference for locating the heart’s apex, which is typically felt at the fifth left intercostal space along this line. The midclavicular line also serves as a surface landmark for assessing lung fields and for describing findings on physical examination and imaging.

Clinical relevance: The midclavicular line is used to describe the projection of underlying structures on chest radiographs and during auscultation or palpation of the chest. It helps healthcare professionals communicate precise locations for heart sounds, lung findings, and procedural guidance on the anterior thorax.

Etymology and usage: The term is used in Danish and other languages to denote this standard anatomical reference. It is one of several thoracic lines, alongside the midline, anterior axillary line, and midaxillary line, that together help map surface anatomy for clinical assessment and diagnostic imaging.