Murphy's sign is indicative of which condition?

• A. Appendicitis
• B. Cholecystitis
• C. Hysterectomy
• D. Tonsillectomy

Answer: (B)

Murphy's sign is a clinical test used to assess for cholecystitis, which is the inflammation of the gallbladder. When performing this test, a healthcare provider asks the patient to take a deep breath while palpating the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. A positive Murphy's sign occurs if the patient suddenly stops inhaling due to pain during this palpation, indicating that the gallbladder is inflamed and sensitive to pressure.

This sign is specifically associated with cholecystitis because the gallbladder is located in that region, and painful reactions during examination suggest that the inflammation is significant enough to cause discomfort when the area is manipulated. Hence, the presence of Murphy's sign strongly indicates this condition, making it the correct answer.