What is typically a common finding when a patient is malingering?

A common finding in cases of malingering is the presence of vague complaints that do not correspond with the results of a physical examination. Patients who are malingering often report symptoms that seem exaggerated or inconsistent with the objective findings assessed during the examination. This disconnect can signal that the individual may not be fully truthful about their condition with the intent to gain some form of benefit, such as financial compensation or avoiding responsibilities.

In contrast, the other options highlight aspects more typical of genuine medical cases. For instance, clear evidence of an underlying medical condition would indicate an actual health issue rather than fabrication. Consistent subjective reports aligning with objective findings reinforce the credibility of a patient’s claims, which does not occur in malingering scenarios. Lastly, a positive response to conservative treatment would suggest that the patient has a legitimate issue that is amenable to treatment, contradicting the premise of malingering where the symptoms are often unfounded. Thus, the presence of vague complaints without supportive physical exam findings aligns closely with the characteristics of malingering.