Boas' sign

System: Abdominal & Digestive Signs · All abdominal & digestive signs

What it is — and how it is elicited

An area of increased skin sensitivity (hyperaesthesia) below the right shoulder blade, sometimes extending to the right upper abdomen.

What a positive finding suggests

Described as associated with acute gallbladder disease (cholecystitis).

◈ Behind the name

Ismar Isidor Boas (1858–1938), German gastroenterologist.

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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.