Rovsing sign is positive when palpation of the left lower quadrant causes pain in the right lower quadrant, indicating which condition?

Rovsing sign is positive when palpation of the left lower quadrant causes pain in the right lower quadrant, indicating which condition?

• A. Appendicitis
• B. Pancreatitis
• C. Gastritis
• D. Cholecystitis

Answer: (A)

Rovsing sign hinges on peritoneal irritation from appendiceal inflammation. When you palpate the left lower quadrant, the pressure and movement within the abdomen can irritate the peritoneum near the appendix in the right lower quadrant. That irritation is felt as pain in the RLQ, producing a positive sign. This pattern points toward appendicitis, whereas conditions like pancreatitis, gastritis, or cholecystitis involve different organs and don’t typically cause this kind of referred RLQ pain from LLQ palpation. Remember, signs vary and Rovsing is one clue among several in assessing suspected appendicitis.

Rovsing sign hinges on peritoneal irritation from appendiceal inflammation. When you palpate the left lower quadrant, the pressure and movement within the abdomen can irritate the peritoneum near the appendix in the right lower quadrant. That irritation is felt as pain in the RLQ, producing a positive sign. This pattern points toward appendicitis, whereas conditions like pancreatitis, gastritis, or cholecystitis involve different organs and don’t typically cause this kind of referred RLQ pain from LLQ palpation. Remember, signs vary and Rovsing is one clue among several in assessing suspected appendicitis.