Abdominal rigidity indicates what?

• A. Normal abdomen with no signs
• B. Stiff abdomen suggesting internal bleeding/peritonitis
• C. Soft abdomen with normal findings
• D. Swollen abdomen due to edema

Answer: (B)

Abdominal rigidity is an involuntary stiffening of the abdominal wall caused by irritation of the peritoneum. It signals significant intra-abdominal pathology, most notably peritonitis or internal bleeding from trauma or rupture, and usually points to a surgical abdomen needing rapid evaluation. A normal abdomen is soft with no signs of guarding or rigidity, so that would not fit. Edema-related swelling can cause distension but does not produce the acute, involuntary rigidity associated with peritoneal irritation.