Cullen's sign refers to bluish-black discoloration in which region?

Cullen's sign refers to bluish-black discoloration in which region?

• A. Flanks
• B. Umbilical region
• C. Groin
• D. Forehead

Answer: (B)

Cullen's sign is bluish-black discoloration around the umbilicus. This periumbilical ecchymosis happens because blood from intraperitoneal bleeding can track along the falciform ligament to the area around the belly button. It’s a late sign, often seen hours to a day or two after the bleed, and is classically associated with conditions like pancreatitis or ruptured ectopic pregnancy, though its absence doesn’t rule out bleeding. For contrast, Grey Turner's sign is discoloration of the flanks, indicating retroperitoneal or more extensive bleeding; forehead or groin discoloration isn’t typical for Cullen’s sign.

Cullen's sign is bluish-black discoloration around the umbilicus. This periumbilical ecchymosis happens because blood from intraperitoneal bleeding can track along the falciform ligament to the area around the belly button. It’s a late sign, often seen hours to a day or two after the bleed, and is classically associated with conditions like pancreatitis or ruptured ectopic pregnancy, though its absence doesn’t rule out bleeding. For contrast, Grey Turner's sign is discoloration of the flanks, indicating retroperitoneal or more extensive bleeding; forehead or groin discoloration isn’t typical for Cullen’s sign.