Abdominal Examination MCQ Quiz Questions And Answers

Reviewed by Farah Naz
Farah Naz, MBBS |
Medical Writer
Review Board Member
Farah Naz is a Medical Professional with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Dow University of Health Sciences. Her academic journey included internships in Radiology, Cardiology, and Neurosurgery. Her contributions to medical research extend to two publications in medical journals, solidifying her position as a promising addition to the field.
, MBBS
Approved & Edited by ProProfs Editorial Team
The editorial team at ProProfs Quizzes consists of a select group of subject experts, trivia writers, and quiz masters who have authored over 10,000 quizzes taken by more than 100 million users. This team includes our in-house seasoned quiz moderators and subject matter experts. Our editorial experts, spread across the world, are rigorously trained using our comprehensive guidelines to ensure that you receive the highest quality quizzes.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By Bikisoucy
B
Bikisoucy
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 15 | Total Attempts: 38,312
Questions: 35 | Attempts: 15,051

SettingsSettingsSettings
Abdominal Examination MCQ Quiz Questions And Answers - Quiz

Do you know about abdominal pains? If you wish to check your knowledge of abdominal examination, take this MCQ quiz. While examining abdomen or abdominal pains, a lot of factors are considered. There are also different terms that are related to the abdomen. Here, we have got a few questions to find out how well you know about the abdominal exchange. Your scores will reveal how much more knowledge you need. All the best for a perfect score. You can share the quiz with other medical aspirants also.


Abdominal Examination Questions and Answers

  • 1. 

    Abdominal pain is one of the most frequent reasons for a visit to the doctor.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Abdominal pain is indeed one of the most common reasons why people visit a doctor. There are numerous potential causes for abdominal pain, ranging from minor issues like indigestion or gas to more serious conditions like appendicitis or kidney stones. Since abdominal pain can be a symptom of various underlying problems, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Therefore, the statement "Abdominal pain is one of the most frequent reasons for a visit to the doctor" is true.

    Rate this question:

  • 2. 

    Abdominal pain accounts for about 20 percent of all emergency room visits.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    B. False
    Explanation
    Abdominal pain accounts for about 8 percent of all emergency room visits.

    Rate this question:

  • 3. 

    Which of the following are Acute abdominal pain syndromes?

    • A.

      Appendicitis

    • B.

      Cholecystitis

    • C.

      Pancreatitis

    • D.

      Perforation

    • E.

      Obstruction

    • F.

      Esophagitis

    • G.

      Dyspepsia

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Appendicitis
    B. Cholecystitis
    C. Pancreatitis
    D. Perforation
    E. Obstruction
    Explanation
    The given answer includes appendicitis, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, perforation, and obstruction. These conditions are considered acute abdominal pain syndromes because they all involve sudden and severe abdominal pain. Appendicitis refers to inflammation of the appendix, cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, perforation refers to a hole or tear in the gastrointestinal tract, and obstruction refers to blockage of the intestines. These conditions can all cause acute abdominal pain and require medical attention.

    Rate this question:

  • 4. 

    Which of the following are Chronic abdominal pain syndromes?

    • A.

      Appendicitis

    • B.

      Cholecystitis

    • C.

      Pancreatitis

    • D.

      Perforation

    • E.

      Obstruction

    • F.

      Infarction

    • G.

      Esophagitis

    • H.

      Peptic ulcer disease

    • I.

      Dyspepsia

    • J.

      IBS

    Correct Answer(s)
    G. EsopHagitis
    H. Peptic ulcer disease
    I. Dyspepsia
    J. IBS
    Explanation
    The correct answer includes esophagitis, peptic ulcer disease, dyspepsia, and IBS. These conditions are all considered chronic abdominal pain syndromes. Esophagitis refers to inflammation of the esophagus, which can cause abdominal pain. Peptic ulcer disease is characterized by open sores in the lining of the stomach or small intestine, leading to abdominal pain. Dyspepsia is a term used to describe recurring or persistent indigestion, which can cause abdominal discomfort. IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

    Rate this question:

  • 5. 

    A patient presents with severe pain in the side and back just below the ribs, which radiates to the lower abdomen and groin. You begin your assessment, but the patient leaves the room complaining that they have the persistent urge to urinate. Automatically you would suspect which of the following conditions?

    • A.

      Appendicitis

    • B.

      Cholecystitis

    • C.

      Diverticulitis

    • D.

      Pancreatitis

    • E.

      Renal calculi

    • F.

      Infarction

    • G.

      Irritable bowel syndrome

    Correct Answer
    E. Renal calculi
    Explanation
    The patient's symptoms of severe pain in the side and back just below the ribs, which radiates to the lower abdomen and groin, along with the persistent urge to urinate, are indicative of renal calculi, also known as kidney stones. Kidney stones can cause intense pain as they pass through the urinary tract, and the urge to urinate frequently is a common symptom. The other conditions listed do not typically present with these specific symptoms.

    Rate this question:

  • 6. 

    A patient presents to your clinic with a chief complaint of N/V, fever, chills, and pain upon urination. You take a urine specimen from the patient and note a reddish-brown color in the urine. Which of the following do you suspect? 

    • A.

      Appendicitis

    • B.

      Pancreatitis

    • C.

      Perforation

    • D.

      Infarction

    • E.

      Esophagitis

    • F.

      Irritable bowel syndrome

    • G.

      Renal calculi

    Correct Answer
    G. Renal calculi
    Explanation
    Based on the symptoms described (N/V, fever, chills, pain upon urination) and the reddish-brown color in the urine, the most likely explanation is renal calculi, also known as kidney stones. Kidney stones can cause urinary tract infections, leading to symptoms such as fever and pain upon urination. The reddish-brown color in the urine could be due to the presence of blood. Appendicitis, pancreatitis, perforation, infarction, esophagitis, and irritable bowel syndrome do not typically present with these specific symptoms and urine color.

    Rate this question:

  • 7. 

    A 27 y/o female presents to your clinic with a chief complaint of abnormal flatulence and bloating for the past three months. The patient mentions that she is a PA student at Miami Dade College and that she is under a lot of stress. She says she also has alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation. You suspect that this student has:

    • A.

      Cholecystitis

    • B.

      Pancreatitis

    • C.

      Infarction

    • D.

      Esophagitis

    • E.

      Dyspepsia

    • F.

      Irritable bowel syndrome

    • G.

      Renal calculi

    Correct Answer
    F. Irritable bowel syndrome
    Explanation
    Based on the patient's symptoms of abnormal flatulence, bloating, alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation, and the fact that she is under a lot of stress, the most likely diagnosis is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and bloating. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate the symptoms of IBS. The other options such as cholecystitis, pancreatitis, infarction, esophagitis, dyspepsia, and renal calculi do not align with the patient's symptoms and history.

    Rate this question:

  • 8. 

    A 35 y/o male presents to your clinic with a chief complaint of abdominal pain secondary to vomiting and unusual burping. You ask the patient to describe their pain, to which they respond with "gnawing and burning like a fire that comes and goes as it pleases." You ask the patient to point with one finger where it hurts, and they point to the upper middle part of their stomach. With a description as such, you would automatically suspect:

    • A.

      Appendicitis

    • B.

      Diverticulitis

    • C.

      Esophagitis

    • D.

      Peptic ulcer disease

    • E.

      Dyspepsia

    • F.

      Irritable bowel syndrome

    • G.

      Renal calculi

    Correct Answer
    E. Dyspepsia
    Explanation
    Based on the patient's description of gnawing and burning pain in the upper middle part of the stomach, along with symptoms of vomiting and unusual burping, the most likely diagnosis is dyspepsia. Dyspepsia, also known as indigestion, is a common condition characterized by discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen. It can be caused by various factors such as overeating, eating too quickly, certain medications, or underlying conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or peptic ulcer disease. The symptoms described by the patient align with the typical presentation of dyspepsia.

    Rate this question:

  • 9. 

    A 22 y/o male presents with a chief complaint of hunger and an empty feeling in the stomach not long after eating. He explains that his pain is sometimes complicated with nausea but relieved with vomiting. He also explains that there are times when he wakes up at night with abdominal pain. You suspect the patient may have:

    • A.

      Appendicitis

    • B.

      Diverticulitis

    • C.

      Pancreatitis

    • D.

      Perforation

    • E.

      Obstruction

    • F.

      Peptic ulcer disease

    • G.

      Dyspepsia

    Correct Answer
    F. Peptic ulcer disease
    Explanation
    The patient's symptoms of hunger and an empty feeling in the stomach after eating, along with abdominal pain that is relieved with vomiting, suggest peptic ulcer disease. Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. These ulcers can cause pain and discomfort, especially after eating. The patient's symptoms of nausea and waking up at night with abdominal pain further support this diagnosis. Appendicitis, diverticulitis, pancreatitis, perforation, obstruction, and dyspepsia do not typically present with the specific symptoms described by the patient.

    Rate this question:

  • 10. 

    You are eating on campus at MDC Medical and notice another PA student choking on their food. You immediately run over to help. You perform the Heimlich maneuver and successfully dislodge the bolus from your fellow PA-S. The student sincerely thanks you and says, "Wow, this is the fifth time that has happened this month! It kinda hurts when I swallow sometimes, and it gets stuck back there at times. Thanks for saving me!" You suspect that your fellow PA-S may have:

    • A.

      Pancreatitis

    • B.

      Perforation

    • C.

      Obstruction

    • D.

      Infarction

    • E.

      Esophagitis

    • F.

      Peptic ulcer disease

    • G.

      Renal calculi

    Correct Answer
    E. EsopHagitis
    Explanation
    Based on the given scenario, the most likely explanation for the PA student's symptoms is esophagitis. Esophagitis is the inflammation of the esophagus, which can cause pain and difficulty swallowing. It can also lead to food getting stuck in the esophagus, resulting in choking episodes. The student's complaint of pain while swallowing and the recurring episodes of food getting stuck support this diagnosis. Pancreatitis, perforation, obstruction, infarction, peptic ulcer disease, and renal calculi are less likely explanations based on the information provided.

    Rate this question:

  • 11. 

    A 65 y/o female presents to your clinic with severe, colicky, continuous abdominal pain. You first auscultate the abdomen and then begin palpation. You note that there is no particular rebound tenderness and rule out cholelithiasis and nephrolithiasis. The patient denies a history of ulcers. You suspect that this patient may have:

    • A.

      Appendicitis

    • B.

      Pancreatitis

    • C.

      Perforation

    • D.

      Obstruction

    • E.

      Infarction

    • F.

      Peptic ulcer disease

    • G.

      Irritable bowel syndrome

    Correct Answer
    E. Infarction
    Explanation
    Based on the given information, the patient's severe, colicky, continuous abdominal pain suggests a lack of blood supply to a specific organ, which is known as infarction. This can occur due to a blockage in the blood vessels supplying the organ. The absence of rebound tenderness, ruling out cholelithiasis, nephrolithiasis, and ulcers, further supports the possibility of infarction. Appendicitis, pancreatitis, perforation, obstruction, peptic ulcer disease, and irritable bowel syndrome are less likely based on the given symptoms and findings.

    Rate this question:

  • 12. 

    A 32 y/o male post-op patient presents to your clinic with a chief complaint of "not farting or pooping for days." He complains that he is typically on a "pooping schedule" and is typically "very regular." He also states that he typically passes gas a few times a day. He became worried when he had not experienced either for the past two days. You note that he experiences moderate cramping around the umbilicus. You rule out appendicitis with all the appropriate tests. What do you suspect this patient has?

    • A.

      Appendicitis

    • B.

      Cholecystitis

    • C.

      Pancreatitis

    • D.

      Perforation

    • E.

      Obstruction

    • F.

      Infarction

    • G.

      Esophagitis

    Correct Answer
    E. Obstruction
    Explanation
    Based on the patient's symptoms of not farting or pooping for days, along with moderate cramping around the umbilicus, the most likely explanation for this patient's condition is obstruction. Obstruction refers to a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract that prevents the normal passage of stool and gas. This can lead to symptoms such as constipation, abdominal pain, and bloating. Given that the patient is post-op, it is possible that adhesions or scar tissue from the surgery are causing the obstruction. Other potential causes of obstruction include tumors, strictures, or hernias.

    Rate this question:

  • 13. 

    A 32 y/o female post-op patient presents to the ER with a chief complaint of N/V with severe abdominal pain. You immediately lay the patient down to auscultate the abdomen and note that bowel sounds are absent. You suspect the patient has what condition as a complication of surgery?

    • A.

      Pancreatitis

    • B.

      Perforation

    • C.

      Obstruction

    • D.

      Infarction

    • E.

      Esophagitis

    • F.

      Dyspepsia

    • G.

      Irritable bowel syndrome

    Correct Answer
    B. Perforation
    Explanation
    In this scenario, the absence of bowel sounds suggests a complication related to the gastrointestinal tract. Perforation refers to a hole or tear in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract, which can occur as a complication of surgery. This can lead to severe abdominal pain and nausea/vomiting, as seen in the patient's chief complaint.

    Rate this question:

  • 14. 

    A 38 y/o male patient presents to your clinic with upper abdominal pain that radiates into the back. You check the patient's chart for his vitals and note that his heart rate was recorded on this visit at 130 bpm. The patient complains that the pain worsens when they lay supine and after eating. You suspect this patient may have:

    • A.

      Cholecystitis

    • B.

      Diverticulitis

    • C.

      Pancreatitis

    • D.

      Infarction

    • E.

      Esophagitis

    • F.

      Peptic ulcer disease

    Correct Answer
    C. Pancreatitis
    Explanation
    The patient's symptoms of upper abdominal pain that radiates into the back, worsens when lying supine and after eating, along with a recorded heart rate of 130 bpm, are consistent with pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back. The pain is typically worsened by lying flat and after eating. The elevated heart rate could be a result of the body's response to inflammation and pain. Therefore, pancreatitis is the most likely diagnosis for this patient.

    Rate this question:

  • 15. 

    A 56 y/o female patient presents to your clinic with a chief complaint of "nausea, not wanting to eat, and irregular bowel movements for the past seven days." She explains that she became worried when she started to experience abnormal painful bloating in her abdomen. You begin your examination and note that upon palpation, the patient experiences severe pain in the lower left side of the abdomen. You suspect possibly:

    • A.

      Diverticulitis

    • B.

      Pancreatitis

    • C.

      Perforation

    • D.

      Obstruction

    • E.

      Infarction

    • F.

      Esophagitis

    • G.

      Renal calculi

    Correct Answer
    A. Diverticulitis
    Explanation
    The patient's symptoms of nausea, loss of appetite, irregular bowel movements, and painful bloating in the abdomen, along with severe pain in the lower left side of the abdomen upon palpation, are indicative of diverticulitis. Diverticulitis is the inflammation or infection of small pouches called diverticula that can develop along the walls of the colon. The symptoms and location of pain align with diverticulitis, making it the most likely diagnosis in this case.

    Rate this question:

  • 16. 

    A 66 y/o male patient presents with severe RUQ pain that worsens upon respiration. The patient expresses that they experience more discomfort after eating and at times feel nauseous. You ask the patient about their last bowel movement and note that the patient says their last few movements were a grayish clay color. You suspect possibly:

    • A.

      Appendicitis

    • B.

      Cholecystitis

    • C.

      Diverticulitis

    • D.

      Pancreatitis

    • E.

      Perforation

    • F.

      Obstruction

    • G.

      Dyspepsia

    Correct Answer
    B. Cholecystitis
    Explanation
    The patient's symptoms of severe RUQ pain that worsens upon respiration, discomfort after eating, and nausea, along with the grayish clay color of their last bowel movements, are indicative of cholecystitis. Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, which can be caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct. This blockage leads to the accumulation of bile, causing pain and discomfort. The association of symptoms with eating and the presence of grayish clay-colored stools suggest a problem with bile flow, supporting the diagnosis of cholecystitis.

    Rate this question:

  • 17. 

    A 14 y/o female patient presents to your pediatric clinic with a low-grade fever. You ask her to sit up, but she expresses that it hurts too much to move and would rather stay lying down. The patient exhibits involuntary guarding of both lower quadrants of the abdomen and begins to cry when you palpate McBurney's point. You immediately suspect:

    • A.

      Appendicitis

    • B.

      Diverticulitis

    • C.

      Pancreatitis

    • D.

      Obstruction

    • E.

      Infarction

    • F.

      Peptic ulcer disease

    • G.

      Irritable bowel syndrome

    Correct Answer
    A. Appendicitis
    Explanation
    The given symptoms of a low-grade fever, pain upon movement, involuntary guarding of the lower quadrants of the abdomen, and tenderness at McBurney's point are indicative of appendicitis. Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, which can cause severe abdominal pain and tenderness. The symptoms mentioned align with the classic presentation of appendicitis, making it the most likely diagnosis in this case.

    Rate this question:

  • 18. 

    When a patient subconsciously tenses the abdominal muscles during an examination

    • A.

      Guarding

    • B.

      Involuntary guarding

    • C.

      Voluntary guarding

    Correct Answer
    A. Guarding
    Explanation
    Guarding refers to the involuntary tensing of the abdominal muscles by a patient during a medical examination. This response is typically subconscious and occurs as a protective mechanism to prevent further pain or injury in the abdominal area. It can be a sign of underlying pathology of inflammation in the abdomen. Guarding can be differentiated into voluntary or involuntary based on the patient's level of control over the muscle tension.

    Rate this question:

  • 19. 

    Occurs before the doctor actually makes contact.

    • A.

      Guarding

    • B.

      Involuntary guarding

    • C.

      Voluntary guarding

    Correct Answer
    B. Involuntary guarding
    Explanation
    Involuntary guarding refers to the tightening or contraction of muscles in response to pain or injury. It is an automatic reflex that occurs before the doctor actually makes contact. This reflexive muscle contraction is the body's way of protecting the injured area from further harm. It is different from voluntary guarding, which is a conscious effort to protect the injured area by contracting the muscles.

    Rate this question:

  • 20. 

    Occurs the moment the doctor's hand touches the abdomen

    • A.

      Guarding

    • B.

      Involuntary guarding

    • C.

      Voluntary guarding

    Correct Answer
    C. Voluntary guarding
    Explanation
    Voluntary guarding refers to the intentional contraction of the abdominal muscles by the patient in response to pain or discomfort. It is a conscious and deliberate action taken by the patient to protect the abdomen from further injury or pain. In this case, when the doctor's hand touches the abdomen, the patient may instinctively contract their abdominal muscles to guard against the potential pain or discomfort caused by the examination.

    Rate this question:

  • 21. 

    Increased pain with coughing

    • A.

      Obturator sign

    • B.

      Psoas sign

    • C.

      Dunphys sign

    Correct Answer
    C. DunpHys sign
    Explanation
    Dunphy's sign refers to the presence of increased pain with coughing. It is a clinical sign that suggests inflammation or irritation in the area being examined. When a patient experiences increased pain during coughing, it indicates that there may be an underlying condition or injury causing this symptom. Therefore, Dunphy's sign is a useful diagnostic tool for healthcare professionals to identify the source of the pain and determine appropriate treatment options.

    Rate this question:

  • 22. 

    Pain on internal rotation of right thigh (pelvic appendix) 

    • A.

      Obturator sign

    • B.

      Psoas sign

    • C.

      Dunphys sign

    Correct Answer
    A. Obturator sign
    Explanation
    The obturator sign refers to pain experienced when the right thigh is internally rotated. This sign is indicative of irritation or inflammation of the obturator muscle or the obturator nerve. It is often associated with conditions such as appendicitis, pelvic abscess, or ovarian cysts. The presence of pain during internal rotation of the right thigh suggests that there may be an issue with the structures in the pelvic region on the right side.

    Rate this question:

  • 23. 

    Pain on extension of right thigh (retroperitoneal retrocecal appendix)

    • A.

      Obturator sign

    • B.

      Psoas sign

    • C.

      Dunphys sign

    Correct Answer
    B. Psoas sign
    Explanation
    The psoas sign refers to pain experienced when the right thigh is extended, which suggests irritation or inflammation of the psoas muscle. In this case, the pain on extension of the right thigh indicates that the retroperitoneal retrocecal appendix is likely causing the discomfort. The psoas muscle runs along the front of the hip joint and can become irritated when there is inflammation in the nearby appendix. Therefore, the presence of the psoas sign supports the diagnosis of a retroperitoneal retrocecal appendix.

    Rate this question:

  • 24. 

    What is the preferred order for examination of the abdomen?

    • A.

      Inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation

    • B.

      Percussion, auscultation, palpation, inspection

    • C.

      Auscultation, inspection, palpation, percussion

    • D.

      Inspection, palpation, auscultation, percussion

    Correct Answer
    A. Inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation
    Explanation
    The preferred order for examination of the abdomen is inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation. Inspection involves visually examining the abdomen for any abnormalities such as scars, distention, or masses. Auscultation is the next step, where the healthcare provider listens to the bowel sounds using a stethoscope to assess for any abnormal sounds or absence of sounds. Percussion involves tapping on the abdomen to assess the density of underlying organs and detect any abnormal fluid or air accumulation. Finally, palpation is done to feel for any tenderness, masses, or organ enlargement. This order allows for a systematic assessment of the abdomen.

    Rate this question:

  • 25. 

    You are in the emergency room assessing a patient with abdominal pain and fever. You are performing an abdominal examination to assess for peritoneal signs. Which of the following is NOT a peritoneal sign?

    • A.

      Rebound tenderness

    • B.

      Involuntary guarding

    • C.

      Rigidity of the abdomen

    • D.

      Voluntary guarding

    Correct Answer
    D. Voluntary guarding
    Explanation
    Voluntary guarding is not a peritoneal sign because it is a protective mechanism where the patient voluntarily tenses the abdominal muscles to protect the underlying structures. Peritoneal signs, on the other hand, are indicative of inflammation or irritation of the peritoneum and include rebound tenderness, involuntary guarding, and rigidity of the abdomen.

    Rate this question:

  • 26. 

    A 15 y/o high school student presents to the clinic with a 1-day history of nausea and anorexia. He describes the pain as generalized yesterday, but today it has localized to the right lower quadrant. You palpate the left lower quadrant, and the patient experiences pain in the right lower quadrant. What is the name of this sign?

    • A.

      Psoas sign

    • B.

      Obturator sign

    • C.

      Rovsings sign

    • D.

      Cutaneous hyperesthesia

    Correct Answer
    C. Rovsings sign
    Explanation
    Rovsing's sign is a clinical sign used to assess for appendicitis. It is characterized by pain in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen when pressure is applied to the left lower quadrant. This sign indicates irritation of the peritoneum and is suggestive of appendicitis. The other options, psoas sign, obturator sign, and cutaneous hyperesthesia, are not specific for appendicitis and do not involve the same mechanism of pain referral.

    Rate this question:

  • 27. 

    A 25 y/o veterinarian presents to the clinic for evaluation of flank pain, dysuria, nausea, and fever. A urine pregnancy test is negative. A urine dipstick is positive for leukocyte esterase. On physical examination, what would be the most likely sign expected?

    • A.

      Psoas sign

    • B.

      CVA tenderness

    • C.

      Rovsing's sign

    • D.

      Murphy's sign

    Correct Answer
    B. CVA tenderness
    Explanation
    The most likely sign expected in this scenario is CVA tenderness. Flank pain, dysuria, nausea, and fever are suggestive of a urinary tract infection (UTI). The positive leukocyte esterase on the urine dipstick further supports this diagnosis. CVA tenderness refers to tenderness over the costovertebral angle, which is located over the kidneys. In a patient with a UTI, inflammation of the kidneys can cause pain and tenderness in this area. Therefore, CVA tenderness is the most likely sign to be expected in this case.

    Rate this question:

  • 28. 

    A 40 y/o flight attendant presents to your office for evaluation of abdominal pain. It is worse after eating, especially if she has a meal that is spicy or high in fat. She has tried over-the-counter antacids, but they have not helped the pain. After examining her abdomen, you strongly suspect cholecystitis. Which sign-on examination increases your suspicion of this diagnosis?

    • A.

      Psoas sign

    • B.

      Rovsing's sign

    • C.

      Murphy's sign

    • D.

      Grey turner's sign

    Correct Answer
    C. MurpHy's sign
    Explanation
    Murphy's sign is a physical examination finding that increases suspicion of cholecystitis. It is elicited by palpating the right upper quadrant of the abdomen while the patient takes a deep breath. If the patient stops breathing or experiences increased pain upon inspiration, it suggests inflammation of the gallbladder. This sign is indicative of cholecystitis because the gallbladder is typically tender and inflamed in this condition, and the patient's symptoms of abdominal pain worse after eating, particularly with spicy or fatty meals. The other signs mentioned, such as the psoas sign, Rovsing's sign, and Grey Turner's sign, are not specifically associated with cholecystitis.

    Rate this question:

  • 29. 

    A 22 y/o celebrity with a known history of intravenous drug use presents to the ER for evaluation of a 5-day history of nausea, emesis, and RUQ abdominal pain. On the general survey, he appears ill, and his skin is distinctly yellow. He has a temperature of 102.5 degrees F and a heart rate of 112 bpm. You provisionally diagnose him with acute hepatitis. What would you expect to find on an abdominal examination?

    • A.

      Liver edge is tender and 4-5 finger breadths below the RCM

    • B.

      Liver edge is nonpalpable

    • C.

      Liver edge is tender and 1 finger breadth below the RCM

    • D.

      Liver edge is nontender and 4-5 finger breadths below the RCM

    Correct Answer
    A. Liver edge is tender and 4-5 finger breadths below the RCM
    Explanation
    In a patient with acute hepatitis, the liver is typically enlarged and tender. The tenderness is due to inflammation and swelling of the liver. The liver edge is also expected to be palpable and may be felt below the right costal margin (RCM). The distance between the liver edge and the RCM is often described in terms of finger breadths. In this case, a liver edge that is tender and 4-5 finger breadths below the RCM is consistent with the diagnosis of acute hepatitis.

    Rate this question:

  • 30. 

    Palpable deep to the left costal margin during inspiration

    • A.

      Liver edge

    • B.

      Spleen edge

    • C.

      Rovsing's sign

    • D.

      Psoas sign

    • E.

      Obturator sign

    • F.

      Cutaneous hyperesthesia

    Correct Answer
    B. Spleen edge
    Explanation
    The correct answer is spleen edge. During inspiration, if the spleen is palpable deep to the left costal margin, it indicates an enlarged spleen. This can be a sign of various underlying conditions such as liver disease, hematological disorders, or infections. Palpating the spleen edge can help in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions.

    Rate this question:

  • 31. 

    Palpable 6 cm below the right costal margin in the midclavicular line during inspiration

    • A.

      Liver edge

    • B.

      Spleen edge

    • C.

      Rovsing's sign

    • D.

      Psoas sign

    • E.

      Obturator sign

    • F.

      Cutaneous hyperesthesia

    Correct Answer
    A. Liver edge
    Explanation
    The given scenario describes the palpation of a structure that is located 6 cm below the right costal margin in the midclavicular line during inspiration. This is consistent with the location of the liver edge, as the liver is the largest solid organ in the abdomen and is typically palpable just below the right costal margin. Therefore, the correct answer is the liver edge.

    Rate this question:

  • 32. 

    Pain in the right lower quadrant during palpation of the left lower quadrant

    • A.

      Liver edge

    • B.

      Spleen edge

    • C.

      Rovsing's sign

    • D.

      Psoas sign

    • E.

      Obturator sign

    • F.

      Cutaneous hyperesthesia

    Correct Answer
    C. Rovsing's sign
    Explanation
    Rovsing's sign is a clinical finding where palpation of the left lower quadrant of the abdomen causes pain in the right lower quadrant. This suggests inflammation or irritation of the appendix, which is located in the right lower quadrant. This sign is commonly associated with appendicitis, as the appendix can become inflamed and cause pain that is referred to other areas of the abdomen. Therefore, the presence of Rovsing's sign indicates a potential diagnosis of appendicitis.

    Rate this question:

  • 33. 

    Examiner's hand is placed on the patient's right knee, and the patient is asked to raise their right thigh against the examiner's hand

    • A.

      Liver edge

    • B.

      Spleen edge

    • C.

      Rovsing's sign

    • D.

      Psoas sign

    • E.

      Obturator sign

    • F.

      Cutaneous hyperesthesia

    Correct Answer
    D. Psoas sign
    Explanation
    The Psoas sign is a physical examination maneuver used to assess for inflammation or irritation of the psoas muscle. In this maneuver, the examiner places their hand on the patient's right knee and asks the patient to raise their right thigh against the examiner's hand. If the patient experiences pain in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen during this maneuver, it may indicate inflammation of the psoas muscle, which can be seen in conditions such as appendicitis. Therefore, the Psoas sign is the most appropriate answer in this scenario.

    Rate this question:

  • 34. 

    Pain is elicited when the patient's right thigh is flexed at the hip with the knee bent, and the leg is internally rotated at the hip

    • A.

      Liver edge

    • B.

      Spleen edge

    • C.

      Rovsing's sign

    • D.

      Psoas sign

    • E.

      Obturator sign

    • F.

      Cutaneous hyperesthesia

    Correct Answer
    E. Obturator sign
    Explanation
    The Obturator sign is a clinical test used to assess for inflammation or irritation of the obturator internus muscle or the obturator nerve. It involves flexing the patient's right thigh at the hip with the knee bent, and then internally rotating the leg at the hip. If the patient experiences pain during this maneuver, it suggests inflammation or irritation of the obturator structures. This sign can be indicative of conditions such as appendicitis or pelvic inflammatory disease.

    Rate this question:

  • 35. 

    Pain elicited by gently picking up a fold of abdominal skin anteriorly

    • A.

      Liver edge

    • B.

      Spleen edge

    • C.

      Rovsing's sign

    • D.

      Psoas sign

    • E.

      Obturator sign

    • F.

      Cutaneous hyperesthesia

    Correct Answer
    F. Cutaneous hyperesthesia
    Explanation
    Cutaneous hyperesthesia refers to an increased sensitivity or heightened response to touch or stimuli on the skin. In this scenario, the pain elicited by gently picking up a fold of abdominal skin anteriorly suggests that the individual may have cutaneous hyperesthesia. This condition can occur due to various reasons such as nerve damage, inflammation, or hypersensitivity. It is important to note that the other options listed (liver edge, spleen edge, Rovsing's sign, Psoas sign, and Obutrator sign) are not applicable in this context and do not explain the observed pain.

    Rate this question:

Farah Naz |MBBS |
Medical Writer
Farah Naz is a Medical Professional with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Dow University of Health Sciences. Her academic journey included internships in Radiology, Cardiology, and Neurosurgery. Her contributions to medical research extend to two publications in medical journals, solidifying her position as a promising addition to the field.

Quiz Review Timeline +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Apr 19, 2024
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team

    Expert Reviewed by
    Farah Naz
  • Nov 19, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    Bikisoucy
Back to Top Back to top
Advertisement
×

Wait!
Here's an interesting quiz for you.

We have other quizzes matching your interest.