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Markle sign
System: Abdominal & Digestive Signs · All abdominal & digestive signs
What it is — and how it is elicited
The patient stands on tiptoe and drops suddenly onto the heels; the jolt produces sharp abdominal pain (heel drop test).
What a positive finding suggests
Associated with localised peritoneal inflammation, used in suspected appendicitis.
◈ Behind the name
George Bushar Markle IV (1927–1978), American surgeon.
Related signs — Abdominal & Digestive Signs
Browse the M section of the A–Z list or return to the Clinical Signs hub.
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.