Pain out of proportion
Formal Definition
Pain that seems disproportionately severe compared to physical findings. A clinical red flag.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Pain out of proportion to exam" - should trigger concern for specific diagnoses.
Example
""Patient writhing in pain with a benign-appearing abdomen. Pain out of proportion to exam - need to rule out mesenteric ischemia.""
Clinical Context
Classic association: mesenteric ischemia, compartment syndrome, necrotizing fasciitis. When the pain doesn't match the exam, think dangerous.
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