Which test detects ascites by producing a fluid wave across the abdomen?

Which test detects ascites by producing a fluid wave across the abdomen?

• A. Fluid wave
• B. Murphy sign
• C. McBurney sign
• D. Rovsing sign

Answer: (A)

Detecting ascites relies on how free fluid behaves in the abdominal cavity. The fluid wave test uses that idea: with the patient lying flat, you firmly tap one flank while a hand rests along the midline or the opposite flank. If there is enough free fluid, the disturbance is transmitted through the abdomen and a wave can be felt along the midline or pushed to the opposite side. A visible or palpable fluid wave indicates ascites, reflecting the presence of intraperitoneal fluid rather than solid abdominal tissue alone. In contrast, the other signs relate to irritation or inflammation in specific organs—Murphy sign targets gallbladder inflammation, McBurney sign points to the appendix, and Rovsing sign also signals appendicitis—so they don’t test for fluid in the abdomen.

Detecting ascites relies on how free fluid behaves in the abdominal cavity. The fluid wave test uses that idea: with the patient lying flat, you firmly tap one flank while a hand rests along the midline or the opposite flank. If there is enough free fluid, the disturbance is transmitted through the abdomen and a wave can be felt along the midline or pushed to the opposite side. A visible or palpable fluid wave indicates ascites, reflecting the presence of intraperitoneal fluid rather than solid abdominal tissue alone. In contrast, the other signs relate to irritation or inflammation in specific organs—Murphy sign targets gallbladder inflammation, McBurney sign points to the appendix, and Rovsing sign also signals appendicitis—so they don’t test for fluid in the abdomen.