Physical examination maneuver

Physical Exam

McBurney Point Palpation

also known as McBurney's sign
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Video coming September 2026

How to Perform

Palpate the right lower quadrant at McBurney's point, which McBurney located between 1.5 and 2 inches from the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) on a straight line drawn to the umbilicus. Press with one finger and note any tenderness.

How to Interpret

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References

  • Wagner JM, McKinney WP, Carpenter JL. Does this patient have appendicitis? JAMA. 1996;276(19):1589-1594. PMID: 8918857. Closest study (JAMA Rational Clinical Examination): reports right lower quadrant tenderness, not tenderness localized to McBurney's point; no operating characteristics for this specific sign.
  • McBurney C. Experience with early operative interference in cases of disease of the vermiform appendix. N Y Med J. 1889;50:676-684.

Related Diagnoses

Appendicitis

Related Systems / Regions

AbdomenGastrointestinal

Related Bedside Tests

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Rule in:VHAbdominal Aortic Aneurysm, VHPyloric Stenosis, VHSigmoid Diverticulitis +29 more
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