Which sign is defined by pain upon release of abdominal pressure rather than during pressure?

• A. Rebound tenderness
• B. Rovsing's sign
• C. Psoas sign
• D. Rectal exam

Answer: (A)

Rebound tenderness is the sign being tested here. It happens when the abdomen is pressed and then released; the pain is felt most acutely upon release because the sudden decompression of irritated peritoneum triggers a sharp, painful response. This peritoneal irritation is common in conditions like acute abdomen or appendicitis, where inflammation irritates the lining of the abdominal cavity. The technique relies on pressing slowly to avoid masking pain and then letting go quickly to reveal the rebound pain. Other signs described involve different patterns of pain or maneuvers: for example, Rovsing’s sign is pain in the right lower quadrant during palpation of the left lower quadrant, the psoas sign involves pain with hip extension or resisted flexion indicating psoas irritation, and a rectal exam is a separate procedure rather than a sign produced by releasing abdominal pressure.