What is a physical exam finding associated with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)?

The Chandelier sign is a notable physical exam finding associated with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This sign refers to the patient's reaction of jumping or pulling away when the cervix is touched or manipulated during a pelvic exam, indicating that there is significant pain due to inflammation in the pelvic area. It is often described in cases of PID because the condition typically involves infection and inflammation of the reproductive organs, leading to increased sensitivity and discomfort during such examinations.

While uterine enlargement may be observed in certain conditions, it is not a specific or classic sign of PID. A palpable mass might suggest other conditions, such as an abscess or large ovarian cyst, rather than PID itself. Adnexal tenderness can also be a finding in PID; however, the Chandelier sign specifically focuses on the cervix’s sensitivity and is more distinctive and illustrative of the acute pain response typical in PID cases. Thus, the Chandelier sign acts as a clinical cue for healthcare providers to suspect PID, further guiding diagnosis and management.