The "sign of the buttock" is a cluster of findings during a physical examination that suggest serious pathology in the buttock or hip area, rather than a lower back problem. It's not a single test, but rather an observation made when certain findings are present.
Here's a breakdown of what it entails:
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Suspicion: The "sign of the buttock" is suspected when redness and swelling are observed in the buttock region without a clear history of trauma.
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Examination Findings: A standard examination is performed looking for the following seven key signs:
- Buttock Appearance: The buttock is large, swollen, and tender to the touch.
- Straight Leg Raise (SLR): Straight Leg Raise is limited and painful.
- Trunk Flexion: Trunk flexion is limited.
In essence, if these signs are present, the clinician should suspect a serious problem in the buttock or hip region, which might include conditions such as:
- Osteomyelitis (bone infection)
- Septic arthritis of the hip
- Ischiorectal abscess
- Gluteal hematoma
- Neoplasm (tumor) in the buttock region
- Fractured sacrum or pelvis
Important Note: The "sign of the buttock" is not a definitive diagnosis. It is a clinical indicator that prompts further investigation, often involving imaging studies (like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs) to determine the underlying cause.
