Which organ is typically assessed for palpability when evaluating abdominal pain?

The spleen is often assessed for palpability when evaluating abdominal pain, primarily due to its anatomical position and relationship with surrounding structures. In a clinical setting, when palpating the abdomen, the physician typically checks the left upper quadrant where the spleen is located. An enlarged spleen, or splenomegaly, can indicate various conditions, including infections, liver diseases, and hematologic disorders.

While other organs like the gallbladder, stomach, and pancreas are important in the evaluation of abdominal pain, they are less commonly assessed through palpation. The gallbladder, for instance, is often evaluated through imaging techniques, and its palpability may not be straightforward since it is located beneath the liver. The stomach can be affected by various conditions, but its boundaries can be difficult to palpate accurately as well. The pancreas is situated further back in the abdominal cavity, making it generally inaccessible through physical examination. Thus, the spleen stands out in this context due to its relatively accessible location and the clinical importance of its examination during abdominal assessments.