title: Cullen's sign - Case report with a review of the literature.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Cullen's sign is described as superficial oedema with bruising in the subcutaneous fatty tissue around the peri-umbilical region. It is also known as peri-umbilical ecchymosis.
  
  
  METHODS
  We report a case of a fifty-three year old gentleman who presented with non-specific abdominal pain. Significant bruising was present within the subcutaneous fatty tissue on the anterior abdominal wall in keeping with 'Cullen's sign.' Of note he denied any alcohol intake and his amylase was normal. A diagnosis of pancreatitis was made following a CT scan of his abdomen.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A search of the entire English literature using PubMed with the phrase 'Cullen's sign' has been performed. Papers were reviewed in relation to recognition of this clinical sign, differential diagnosis, and management.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Our case and review of the literature highlights the rarity of this clinical sign which a clinician may encounter. In addition we draw to attention the importance of having knowledge of the underlying possible conditions which may lead to this sign, and can be vital in successful acute management.
authors.affiliation: St. Mark's Hospital and Academic Institute, Harrow, London HA1 3UJ, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: Goher
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Rahbour
authors.forename: Mohammad Rehan
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Ullah
authors.forename: Nuha
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Yassin
authors.forename: Gregory Paul
authors.initials: GP
authors.lastname: Thomas