Homatropine methylbromide

Homans' sign is a medical sign that is often used in the diagnosis of Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It was named after the American physician John Homans, who described the sign in 1944.

Definition[edit | edit source]

Homans' sign is defined as discomfort behind the knee or calf upon forced dorsiflexion of the foot. This sign is considered positive if pain is elicited. However, it is important to note that a positive Homans' sign is not definitive for DVT and further diagnostic tests are required.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Homans' sign is used as a preliminary test for DVT. DVT is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. If left untreated, DVT can lead to Pulmonary embolism (PE), a potentially life-threatening condition.

Criticism[edit | edit source]

The use of Homans' sign in clinical practice has been criticized due to its low sensitivity and specificity. Many medical professionals argue that reliance on Homans' sign can lead to missed diagnoses of DVT. As a result, it is recommended that Homans' sign be used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests for DVT, such as Ultrasound or D-dimer tests.