What it means
The examiner presses slowly and deeply on the abdomen and then lets go quickly; sharp pain at the release is a positive sign. It is the same as rebound tendernessREE-bownd TEN-der-nisPain that is worse when a hand pressing into the abdomen is quickly let go than when it is pressed in.Full entry and points to irritation of the peritoneum, the lining of the abdomen, as in appendicitis or peritonitis. It is named after Jacob Blumberg, a German surgeon.
For the nurse
This test is painful and is usually done by the provider; report guarding, rigidity, and increasing or sudden severe abdominal pain.
At a glance
| Also written | Blumberg's sign |
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Related terms
appendicitis
Inflammation of the appendix, the small pouch that hangs from the start of the large intestine.
rebound tenderness
Pain that is worse when a hand pressing into the abdomen is quickly let go than when it is pressed in.
McBurney point
A spot on the lower right abdomen about one-third of the way from the front of the hip bone to the navel.