Costovertebral angle
Costovertebral angle
Costovertebral angle (pronunciation: kɒstoʊvɜːrtɪbrəl ˈæŋɡəl) is an anatomical term referring to the acute angle formed on either side of the human body between the twelfth rib and the vertebral column. The term is derived from the Latin words costa meaning rib, vertebra meaning joint of the spine, and angulus meaning angle.
The costovertebral angle is significant in medical examinations as tenderness in this area may indicate a pathology of the kidneys, such as pyelonephritis or hydronephrosis.
Examination
The costovertebral angle is examined by the physician gently tapping the area, a procedure known as percussion. If the patient experiences pain during this procedure, it is referred to as costovertebral angle tenderness (CVAT), which may be a sign of renal pathology.
Related Terms
- Kidney: The organ that is closely related to the costovertebral angle. Any pathology of the kidney may cause pain in the costovertebral angle.
- Pyelonephritis: An infection of the kidney that can cause costovertebral angle tenderness.
- Hydronephrosis: A condition characterized by excess fluid in a kidney due to a backup of urine, often causing costovertebral angle tenderness.
- Percussion (medicine): A method used by physicians to tap on the surface of the body to determine the underlying structure or condition.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Costovertebral angle
- Wikipedia's article - Costovertebral angle
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