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A classic sign of appendicitis is tenderness at McBurney's point. This area is located in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, roughly one-third of the distance from the anterior superior iliac spine to the umbilicus. When the appendix becomes inflamed, palpation in this area typically produces significant tenderness. This sign is particularly valuable in the clinical assessment of appendicitis, as it indicates irritation of the peritoneum and can help distinguish appendicitis from other conditions presenting with abdominal pain.

Rebound tenderness, while also relevant in abdominal assessments, may not be as specific to appendicitis and can indicate peritoneal irritation from various causes. Hepatic tenderness relates to liver pathology rather than appendicitis specifically, making it less relevant in this context. A palpable abdominal mass may suggest other abdominal processes such as a tumor or significant distension, which are not typical presentations of appendicitis. Therefore, tenderness at McBurney's point remains a classic and distinguishing clinical sign of appendicitis.