What Is The Kussmal Sign?
Kussmaul's sign is the observation of a jugular venous pressure (JVP, the filling of the jugular vein) that rises with inspiration. It can be seen in some forms of heart disease. Ordinarily the JVP falls with inspiration due to reduced pressure in the expanding thoracic cavity. Kussmaul's sign suggests impaired filling of the right ventricle due to either fluid in the pericardial space or a poorly compliant myocardium or pericardium.
