Berry's sign

System: Hormone & Metabolic Signs · All hormone & metabolic signs

What it is — and how it is elicited

The normal carotid artery pulse cannot be felt alongside a thyroid swelling because the enlarged gland has pushed it aside or buried it.

What a positive finding suggests

Described as associated with malignant thyroid enlargement rather than a benign goitre.

◈ Behind the name

James Berry (1860–1946), British surgeon known for thyroid surgery.

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Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.