Murphy
Murphy's Sign
Murphy's Sign (pronounced: MUR-fee's sign) is a clinical sign that is used in the diagnosis of cholecystitis, or inflammation of the gallbladder. The sign is named after the American surgeon, John Benjamin Murphy, who first described it.
Etymology
The term "Murphy's Sign" is derived from the name of John Benjamin Murphy, an American surgeon who was a prominent figure in the field of surgery in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Murphy was known for his innovative surgical techniques and his contributions to the understanding of appendicitis and cholecystitis.
Description
Murphy's Sign is elicited during a physical examination. The patient is asked to take a deep breath while the doctor palpates (touches) the right subcostal area (just below the right rib cage). If the patient experiences pain or abruptly stops inhaling due to pain, this is considered a positive Murphy's Sign, indicating possible cholecystitis.
Related Terms
- Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder, often caused by gallstones. It can cause severe abdominal pain and is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies.
- John Benjamin Murphy: An American surgeon known for his contributions to the field of surgery, including the description of Murphy's Sign.
- Gallbladder: A small organ located under the liver that stores bile, a fluid produced by the liver to digest fats.
- Gallstones: Hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause cholecystitis.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Murphy
- Wikipedia's article - Murphy
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