Abdominal rigidity indicates what?

Abdominal rigidity indicates what?

• A. Normal abdomen with no signs
• B. Stiff abdomen suggesting internal bleeding/peritonitis
• C. Soft abdomen with normal findings
• D. Swollen abdomen due to edema

Answer: (B)

Abdominal rigidity is an involuntary stiffening of the abdominal wall caused by irritation of the peritoneum. It signals significant intra-abdominal pathology, most notably peritonitis or internal bleeding from trauma or rupture, and usually points to a surgical abdomen needing rapid evaluation. A normal abdomen is soft with no signs of guarding or rigidity, so that would not fit. Edema-related swelling can cause distension but does not produce the acute, involuntary rigidity associated with peritoneal irritation.

Abdominal rigidity is an involuntary stiffening of the abdominal wall caused by irritation of the peritoneum. It signals significant intra-abdominal pathology, most notably peritonitis or internal bleeding from trauma or rupture, and usually points to a surgical abdomen needing rapid evaluation. A normal abdomen is soft with no signs of guarding or rigidity, so that would not fit. Edema-related swelling can cause distension but does not produce the acute, involuntary rigidity associated with peritoneal irritation.