General
pothole
What does pothole mean?
Shorthand reference to the pothole sign, where jolts on the drive in worsen abdominal pain suggestive of peritonitis.
"Pothole-positive again, so I'm worried about his belly."
Origin
From the pothole sign of peritoneal irritation.
Frequently asked questions
What does pothole mean in medical slang?
It refers to the pothole sign: if jolts and bumps on the drive to hospital worsen a patient's abdominal pain, it suggests peritoneal irritation or peritonitis.
Why does hitting potholes matter?
Movement and jarring aggravate an inflamed peritoneum, so pain triggered by bumps is a clue that the abdomen is genuinely irritated.
Is it an official medical term?
The 'pothole sign' is used informally as a clinical shorthand rather than a formal diagnostic test.
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