What is a characteristic finding in cases of perforated ulcers?

In cases of perforated ulcers, the characteristic finding is the absence of bowel sounds. This occurs because the perforation leads to peritonitis, resulting in inflammation and irritation of the peritoneum. The inflammatory response causes bowel motility to decrease significantly, leading to a cessation of normal peristalsis. As a result, bowel sounds diminish or may even become completely absent.

The other options, while they may be associated with various abdominal conditions, do not specifically indicate perforated ulcers. Hyperactive bowel sounds are often observed in conditions like early intestinal obstruction, not in cases of perforation. Edema of the abdomen can occur in different types of abdominal pathology but is not a defining characteristic of perforated ulcers. Localized tenderness may be present, but the absence of bowel sounds is a more distinct and critical finding that helps to establish the diagnosis of perforated ulcers and associated peritonitis.