Confusing Terminology in COVID-19: Signs, Symptoms, and Physical Findings

Abstract

The terms “sign” and “symptom” are often used interchangeably in the medical literature, creating confusion or uncertainty regarding their significance. This dilemma is further apparent when the term “sign” is used when referring to “physical examination findings,” as not all physical findings are signs, but signs are–by their very nature– findings observed during medical evaluation and assessment. Signs and symptoms should be distinguished so that the scope and subject matter of these sub-sciences of medicine are not used interchangeably.