Which physical examination finding is expected in a patient with suspected appendicitis?

A positive obturator sign is a physical examination finding that may indicate appendicitis, particularly when the appendix is located in an atypical position, such as in the pelvis. The obturator sign tests for irritation of the obturator internus muscle, which can occur when the inflamed appendix is in close proximity to it. When a provider flexes the patient's hip and knee and then internally rotates the leg, pain in the lower abdomen suggests that there may be inflammation or irritation.

Other signs related to appendicitis include tenderness in the right lower quadrant and rebound tenderness. However, the obturator sign specifically reflects the underlying inflammation affecting the pelvic structures, which is why it is associated with appendicitis.

The other options present findings or signs that are not typically associated with appendicitis. Murphy's sign is used to assess gallbladder disease, a palpable left lower quadrant mass could indicate other conditions such as diverticulitis, and periumbilical ecchymosis (Cullen's sign) typically suggests a more severe condition, such as hemorrhagic pancreatitis or ruptured ectopic pregnancy, rather than appendicitis specifically.