Definition of Guarding, abdominal

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Guarding, abdominal: Involuntary tensing of the abdominal wall muscles to guard inflamed organs within the abdomen from the pain of pressure. This is detected when the abdomen wall is pressed.

Guarding is a characteristic finding in the physical examination for a painful abdomen if there is inflammation of the inner abdominal (peritoneal) surface as for example from appendicitis or diverticulitis. Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7199
Last Editorial Review: 10/26/1998 9:50:00 AM