Grey Turner's sign

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Grey Turner's sign is a medical sign characterized by bruising of the flanks, the part of the body between the last rib and the top of the hip. This sign is an indication of retroperitoneal hemorrhage, or bleeding behind the peritoneum, which is the lining of the abdominal cavity. It is named after the British surgeon George Grey Turner, who first described it in 1920.

Clinical Significance

Grey Turner's sign is often associated with severe conditions such as acute pancreatitis, abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture, or trauma to the abdomen. The presence of this sign typically indicates that a significant amount of blood has accumulated in the retroperitoneal space, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

Pathophysiology

The bruising seen in Grey Turner's sign is due to the extravasation of blood from the retroperitoneal space to the subcutaneous tissues of the flanks. This can occur due to the rupture of blood vessels or the leakage of blood from inflamed or damaged organs.

Diagnosis

Grey Turner's sign is usually identified during a physical examination. It is often accompanied by other signs of internal bleeding or inflammation, such as Cullen's sign, which is bruising around the umbilicus. Diagnostic imaging, such as CT scan or ultrasound, may be used to identify the underlying cause of the hemorrhage.

Management

The management of a patient with Grey Turner's sign involves addressing the underlying cause of the hemorrhage. This may include surgical intervention, endovascular procedures, or supportive care in an intensive care unit. The prognosis depends on the severity of the underlying condition and the timeliness of the intervention.

History

Grey Turner's sign was first described by George Grey Turner in 1920. Turner was a British surgeon who made significant contributions to the field of surgery, particularly in the understanding and treatment of abdominal conditions.

See Also

• Cullen's sign
• Acute pancreatitis
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Retroperitoneal hemorrhage