What type of sound indicates a pericardial friction rub during auscultation?

A pericardial friction rub is characterized by a leathery rubbing sound that persists even when the patient holds their breath. This specific sound occurs due to the movement of the inflamed pericardial layers rubbing against each other during the cardiac cycle. The rub is typically best heard during systole and is distinct from other heart sounds because its intensity remains unchanged with breathing or breath-holding.

The other sound qualities listed do not accurately describe a pericardial friction rub and relate more to different types of cardiac or respiratory sounds. For instance, high-pitched squeaks are often associated with conditions such as pleural friction rubs, while low rumbling sounds could be indicative of other heart murmurs. Intermittent sharp sounds could be heard in various situations but lack the continuity and persistence characteristic of a pericardial rub. Understanding the unique attributes of these sounds can help practitioners accurately diagnose underlying cardiac conditions.