What sign refers to increased vocal resonance during lung examination?

The term that refers to increased vocal resonance during a lung examination is bronchophony. In clinical practice, bronchophony is assessed when a healthcare provider asks a patient to repeat a phrase while auscultating the lung fields. Normally, the transmitted voice sounds should be muffled and less distinct. However, if the transmitted sounds are clearer and more pronounced, this indicates a potential underlying pathology, such as lung consolidation found in conditions like pneumonia or pulmonary edema.

This sign is particularly useful because it can help differentiate between normal lung tissue and areas of lung that may be filled with fluid or solid material. Therefore, recognizing and interpreting bronchophony is essential in evaluating lung conditions and improving diagnostic accuracy.