Mallet-Guy sign
(Redirected from Mallet-Guy's sign)
Clinical sign associated with pancreatitis
The Mallet-Guy sign is a clinical sign that is used in the diagnosis of pancreatitis, particularly chronic pancreatitis. It is named after the French surgeon Pierre Mallet-Guy, who described it in the context of pancreatic disease.
Description[edit | edit source]
The Mallet-Guy sign is elicited during a physical examination of the abdomen. The sign is considered positive when there is tenderness upon deep palpation of the left costovertebral angle, which is the angle formed between the 12th rib and the vertebral column. This tenderness is thought to be indicative of inflammation or irritation of the pancreas, which is located retroperitoneally and can affect the surrounding structures, including the left costovertebral angle.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
The presence of the Mallet-Guy sign can aid in the diagnosis of pancreatitis, especially when other clinical signs and symptoms are present. It is particularly useful in cases where chronic pancreatitis is suspected, as the inflammation and fibrosis associated with chronic pancreatitis can lead to persistent tenderness in the affected area.
While the Mallet-Guy sign can be a useful clinical tool, it is not specific to pancreatitis and can be present in other conditions that cause left upper quadrant or flank pain. Therefore, it should be considered in conjunction with other clinical findings and diagnostic tests, such as serum amylase and lipase levels, as well as imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scan of the abdomen.
History[edit | edit source]
Pierre Mallet-Guy was a prominent French surgeon who made significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of pancreatic diseases. His work in the mid-20th century helped to elucidate the clinical features of pancreatitis and other pancreatic disorders. The Mallet-Guy sign remains a part of the clinical examination for suspected pancreatic disease, reflecting his lasting impact on the field of gastroenterology.
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