What is the medical term for dark, tarry stools containing blood?

The term "melena" specifically refers to the presence of dark, tarry stools that indicate the presence of digested blood, typically resulting from bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. The dark color and tarry consistency arise from the breakdown of blood as it moves through the intestines, giving the stool a distinctive appearance. This condition often suggests significant gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers or varices.

In contrast, the other terms provided relate to different clinical findings or tests. Cervical motion tenderness is used to assess pelvic pain and may indicate conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease. Adnexal tenderness refers to pain experienced during a pelvic exam that may suggest an issue with the ovaries or fallopian tubes. Guaiac positive refers to a test used to identify hidden blood in the stool but does not specifically describe the appearance of the stool itself. Thus, "melena" is the most accurate medical term for dark, tarry stools containing blood.