What clinical sign, characterized by ecchymosis in the umbilical area, is associated with pancreatitis?

Prepare for the WGU NURS2508 D236 Pathophysiology Exam with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence.

Cullen's sign is characterized by ecchymosis around the umbilical area and is specifically associated with bleeding that can occur in conditions such as pancreatitis, ectopic pregnancy, or abdominal trauma that leads to hemorrhage in the peritoneal cavity. The presence of this sign indicates that there is significant intra-abdominal bleeding, which can be a critical factor in the assessment and management of conditions like pancreatitis.

Grey Turner's sign, on the other hand, involves ecchymosis on the flanks and is indicative of retroperitoneal bleeding, which can also be a result of pancreatitis but does not refer to the umbilical area. Kehr's sign relates to referred pain in the left shoulder due to splenic rupture or irritation of the diaphragm, and Murphy's sign is used to assess for gallbladder disease by checking for pain upon palpation of the right upper quadrant during deep inhalation. These signs depict different clinical scenarios and help healthcare providers narrow down the source of abdominal complaints.

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