Which sign indicates DVT when there is pain in the calf or popliteal region with abrupt dorsiflexion of the foot while the knee is fully extended?

• A. Homans' sign
• B. Pratt's sign
• C. Trousseau's sign
• D. Allen's sign

Answer: (A)

This item tests recognition of a classic bedside sign for deep venous thrombosis. When you have calf or popliteal pain and you abruptly dorsiflex the foot with the knee held straight, the appearance of calf pain suggests a positive sign. Extending the knee tensions the gastrocnemius, which crosses the knee, so dorsiflexion stretches the posterior calf muscles; if a thrombus is present in the deep veins, this maneuver can irritate the clot and produce pain. That association is why this sign is historically taught as indicative of DVT.

Keep in mind this sign is not reliable enough to diagnose DVT on its own—modern practice relies on clinical risk assessment plus imaging like duplex ultrasound and, if appropriate, D-dimer testing.

The other signs listed aren’t standard indicators of DVT in the calf and are associated with different clinical contexts, so they don’t fit the scenario of a provocative calf-pain sign for DVT.