Which physical examination finding is indicative of acute cholecystitis?

In the context of diagnosing acute cholecystitis, Murphy's sign is particularly important. This clinical sign is performed during abdominal examination where the examiner palpates the right upper quadrant while asking the patient to take a deep breath. If the patient experiences pain and abruptly stops inhaling due to discomfort, this is a positive Murphy's sign, indicative of gallbladder inflammation, such as that seen in acute cholecystitis.

Identifying Murphy's sign is crucial for clinicians, as it can help differentiate acute cholecystitis from other abdominal conditions. Other findings in the abdominal examination may relate to different pathologies: for example, McBurney's point tenderness is more suggestive of appendicitis, rebound tenderness is an indication of peritoneal irritation often associated with conditions such as appendicitis or perforated organs, and a rectal examination can reveal findings related to other gastrointestinal issues but does not specifically indicate acute cholecystitis.

Understanding these distinctions helps clinicians focus their assessment and ensure appropriate diagnosis and management of acute cholecystitis.