Inspiratory crackles in patients without excess secretions are most commonly associated with which of the following?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Inspiratory crackles, especially in patients without excess secretions, are most commonly associated with airways popping open during inspiration. This phenomenon occurs when small airways, collapsed at the end of expiration, suddenly open during inspiration, creating the characteristic crackling sound. This is often seen in conditions like pulmonary fibrosis, heart failure, and pneumonia, where the lung's architecture or fluid dynamics are altered.

Inspiratory Crackles in Patients Without Excess Secretions Are Most Commonly