Puddle sign

In gastroenterology, the puddle sign is a physical examination maneuver that can be used to detect the presence of ascites.

Additional recommended knowledge

Essential Laboratory Skills Guide

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Daily Sensitivity Test

It is useful for detecting small amounts of ascites -- as small as 120 mL; shifting dullness and bulging flanks typically require 500 mL.^[1]

In relation to auscultatory percussion, the puddle sign is more specific, but less sensitive.^[2]

References

1. ^ Shah R. Ascites. eMedicine.com. URL: http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic173.htm. Accessed on: September 17, 2007.
2. ^ Chongtham DS, Singh MM, Kalantri SP, Pathak S (1997). "A simple bedside manoeuvre to detect ascites". The National medical journal of India 10 (1): 13-4. PMID 9069699.

See also

• Abdominal examination
• Fluid wave test
• Bulging flanks