Which finding for a patient with pancreatitis is termed Grey Turner’s sign?
A.
Jaundice of the sclera
B.
Bluish discoloration of the periumbilical area
C.
Left abdominal pain that occurs with movement
D.
Bluish discoloration of the flank area
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
D. Bluish discoloration of the flank area
Explanation:
Grey Turner’s sign is a clinical finding associated with acute pancreatitis and other intra-abdominal hemorrhages. It is characterized by a bluish discoloration of the flank area, which is the region of the body located between the lower ribs and the hip. This sign is named after the American physician George Turner who first described it in the 1920s.
The discoloration seen in Grey Turner’s sign is due to the extravasation of blood into the subcutaneous tissues of the flank area. This occurs as a result of bleeding from the pancreas or adjacent structures, which may be a complication of severe acute pancreatitis. When pancreatic inflammation is intense, it can lead to necrosis of pancreatic tissue, and in severe cases, blood vessels can rupture or leak, causing hemorrhage. This blood then travels through the retroperitoneal space and can pool in the flank area, resulting in the characteristic blue or purple bruising.
The presence of Grey Turner’s sign is indicative of serious internal bleeding and is associated with severe cases of pancreatitis or other abdominal injuries. It is important for healthcare professionals to recognize this sign as it helps in assessing the severity of the condition and guiding appropriate management and intervention. Grey Turner’s sign is one of several physical findings that can aid in the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis, but it is not exclusive to this condition and can be seen in other types of abdominal trauma or bleeding.
In addition to Grey Turner’s sign, another related finding is Cullen’s sign, which involves bluish discoloration around the umbilicus (periumbilical area). Both signs reflect significant internal bleeding and require urgent medical attention to address the underlying cause and prevent further complications.