PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is McBurney's point tenderness?

1. Pain located near the lower left quadrant

2. Pain located in the upper abdomen

3. Pain 1/3 of the distance between the umbilicus and ASIS

4. Pain during breathing

The correct answer is: Pain 1/3 of the distance between the umbilicus and ASIS

McBurney's point tenderness refers to the pain that is typically found at a specific location on the abdomen. This point is located about one-third of the distance from the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) to the umbilicus on the right side of the abdomen. It is clinically significant as it is often associated with appendicitis, a condition involving inflammation of the appendix. The relevance of McBurney's point lies in the understanding of its anatomical landmark. When a patient presents with abdominal pain that localizes to this area, it suggests irritation of the peritoneum, particularly from the appendix. The tenderness elicited here is one of the classic signs used in physical exams to evaluate for appendicitis. In differentiating other options, pain in the lower left quadrant points towards issues unrelated to appendicitis, such as diverticulitis or other gastrointestinal conditions. Pain in the upper abdomen does not relate to McBurney's point, which is specifically in the right lower quadrant. Pain during breathing is more indicative of respiratory or pleural conditions rather than an abdominal issue like appendicitis. Thus, the localization and significance of pain at McBurney’s point make it an important clinical marker in the assessment of appendicitis.