Which sign supports appendiceal inflammation?

• A. McBurney's point tenderness
• B. Rovsing's sign
• C. Psoas sign
• D. Rebound tenderness

Answer: (B)

Rovsing's sign reflects peritoneal irritation from appendiceal inflammation. When you press deeply in the left lower quadrant, the patient may develop pain in the right lower quadrant. This happens because the pressure can shift intraperitoneal contents toward the inflamed appendix, triggering pain where the appendix is located. That link between left-sided stimulation and right-sided pain is what makes Rovsing's sign specifically supportive of appendicitis.

In contrast, McBurney's point tenderness points to localized RLQ tenderness over the base of the appendix but doesn’t demonstrate how the inflammation affects the peritoneal lining. Rebound tenderness indicates general peritoneal irritation rather than a process localized to the appendix. The psoas sign shows irritation of the psoas muscle, often with a retrocecal appendix, rather than a general sign of appendiceal inflammation.