Finding
intercostal retraction
in·ter·cos·tal re·trac·tion
Definitions related to intercostal retractions:
  • A pulling inward of the soft tissues between the ribs upon inhalation. This is a sign of increased use of the chest muscles for breathing and is a manifestation of respiratory distress.
    Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO)
    The Human Phenotype Ontology Project, 2025
  • The marked inward movement of the muscles between the ribs during inhalation, indicating that there is reduced pressure in the thoracic cavity, and which can be a sign of breathing difficulties.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
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