Which physical exam finding is commonly associated with ovarian torsion?

Adnexal tenderness is a hallmark physical exam finding associated with ovarian torsion. Ovarian torsion occurs when an ovary twists around the ligaments that support it, cutting off its blood supply. This leads to significant pain and tenderness in the adnexal region, which includes both the ovaries and fallopian tubes. When performing a physical examination, the presence of adnexal tenderness indicates inflammation or irritation in the pelvic region typically related to conditions affecting the ovaries, such as torsion or other pathological processes.

The other options typically relate to different conditions. For instance, rhinorrhea is associated with upper respiratory infections or allergies, while testicular tenderness is related to conditions affecting the testes, such as testicular torsion. Pharyngeal erythema is indicative of throat infections or inflammation. Thus, adnexal tenderness specifically correlates with issues in the female reproductive system, notably ovarian torsion, making it the correct choice in this context.