Which finding on a physical exam would suggest diverticulitis?

The presence of left lower quadrant tenderness is a significant finding that strongly suggests diverticulitis. This condition often arises from inflammation or infection of diverticula, which are small pouches that can form in the wall of the colon. Since these diverticula are most commonly located in the sigmoid colon, tenderness in the left lower quadrant can indicate an inflamed diverticulum.

In evaluating physical exam findings, left lower quadrant tenderness is particularly characteristic of diverticulitis. This finding, combined with a patient's history and other clinical indicators, can help guide the diagnosis.

Other signs, such as the obturator sign, McBurney's point tenderness, and Rovsing's sign, are associated with other conditions. The obturator sign indicates irritation of the obturator internus muscle, often linked to appendicitis or pelvic abscesses. McBurney's point tenderness is a classic sign of appendicitis, localized to the right lower quadrant. Rovsing's sign, which is the palpation of the left lower quadrant eliciting pain in the right lower quadrant, is also associated with appendicitis. Understanding the significance of these signs is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.