Rebound tenderness is a classic sign of?

• A. Peritonitis
• B. Bowel obstruction
• C. Hernia
• D. Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Answer: (A)

Rebound tenderness indicates peritoneal irritation. When you press on the abdomen, the inner lining (peritoneum) tolerates pressure; if it’s inflamed, lifting the hand can cause a sudden return of pain as the irritated peritoneum moves back into place. This sharp pain after release is a classic sign of peritonitis, which can result from a perforated hollow organ, severe infection, or chemical irritation in the abdomen.

The other conditions don’t typically present with rebound tenderness as their hallmark. Bowel obstruction can cause diffuse pain and abdominal signs like distension and altered bowel sounds, but rebound tenderness isn’t the defining feature. A hernia may be tender if it’s incarcerated or strangulated, but rebound tenderness isn’t diagnostic of it. An abdominal aortic aneurysm pain is usually back or abdominal and is accompanied by a pulsatile mass rather than a peritoneal irritation sign.