ROSH Gastrointestinal Practice Exam

Which sign is associated with acute appendicitis?

1. Rovsing sign

2. Murphy's sign

3. Brudzinski sign

4. Babinski reflex

The correct answer is: Rovsing sign

The sign associated with acute appendicitis is Rovsing's sign. This sign is evaluated by palpating the left lower quadrant of the abdomen, which can elicit pain in the right lower quadrant. This occurs due to the anatomical connection and inflammation of the appendix, as palpation of the opposing quadrant can cause shifts in peritoneal irritation, leading to referred pain. Recognizing this sign can aid clinicians in diagnosing appendicitis, especially in the context of acute abdominal pain where other signs may not be present. Murphy's sign, while important in diagnosing gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), is not relevant for appendicitis. Brudzinski sign is typically associated with meningitis and is used to check for meningeal irritation. The Babinski reflex is a neurological exam finding that assesses the integrity of the corticospinal tract and does not relate to gastrointestinal conditions like appendicitis. Understanding these associations reinforces the clinical examination skills necessary for diagnosing abdominal conditions effectively.