Which sign describes periumbilical ecchymosis?

Prepare for the Paramedic Exam. Explore comprehensive study guides with multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations to enhance learning. Ace your test with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which sign describes periumbilical ecchymosis?

Explanation:
Cullen's sign describes periumbilical ecchymosis. It appears as bluish discoloration around the belly button when blood from intra-abdominal bleeding tracks to the subcutaneous tissues at the umbilicus. This pattern can be seen with conditions like acute pancreatitis or ruptured ectopic pregnancy, where there is intra-abdominal hemorrhage. In contrast, Grey Turner's sign is bruising of the flanks indicating retroperitoneal bleeding, ecchymosis is a general term for bruising anywhere, and mottling is a patchy skin discoloration from poor perfusion rather than a specific abdominal sign.

Cullen's sign describes periumbilical ecchymosis. It appears as bluish discoloration around the belly button when blood from intra-abdominal bleeding tracks to the subcutaneous tissues at the umbilicus. This pattern can be seen with conditions like acute pancreatitis or ruptured ectopic pregnancy, where there is intra-abdominal hemorrhage. In contrast, Grey Turner's sign is bruising of the flanks indicating retroperitoneal bleeding, ecchymosis is a general term for bruising anywhere, and mottling is a patchy skin discoloration from poor perfusion rather than a specific abdominal sign.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy