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computed tomography (CT)

Practice targeted AMC-style multiple-choice questions on computed tomography (CT).

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Neuroblastoma, CT of the abdomen
Image by RadsWiki CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old child is brought to the paediatric clinic by their parents due to a 2-month history of increasing abdominal distension, poor appetite, and occasional constipation. On physical examination, a firm, irregular mass is palpable in the upper abdomen, crossing the midline. Vital signs are stable. Initial blood tests, including full blood count and liver function tests, are within normal limits. An abdominal CT scan is performed (image provided). Considering the findings demonstrated in the image, which of the following investigations represents the most appropriate next step in establishing a definitive diagnosis and guiding further management?

A. Surgical resection of the mass
B. Bone marrow aspirate and biopsy
C. Repeat abdominal CT scan in three months
D. Urine catecholamine metabolites (VMA and HVA)
E. Lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid analysis
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CT scan of hepatocellular carcinoma, without and with IV contrast
Image by Zhenyu Pan, Guozi Yang, Tingting Yuan, Lihua Dong, Lihua Dong CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male with a long history of alcohol-related cirrhosis and previous treatment for hepatitis C presents with increasing abdominal distension, fatigue, and a dull ache in the right upper quadrant. He denies acute pain or fever. On examination, he has mild jaundice, shifting dullness, and spider naevi. His vital signs are stable. Recent blood tests show albumin 28 g/L, INR 1.4, total bilirubin 45 µmol/L, ALT 65 U/L, AST 88 U/L, creatinine 90 µmol/L. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is 850 µg/L (normal <10). An abdominal CT scan with contrast is performed, axial views of which are shown. Considering the patient's clinical presentation, laboratory results, and the findings on the provided imaging, what is the MOST appropriate immediate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Proceed directly to surgical resection of the lesion.
B. Schedule a follow-up CT scan in 3 months to monitor for growth.
C. Discuss the case at a multidisciplinary liver tumour board meeting to determine staging and treatment options.
D. Initiate systemic chemotherapy with sorafenib.
E. Obtain a percutaneous biopsy of the lesion for histological confirmation.
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Ovarian Cyst
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 45-year-old woman presents with a 3-month history of increasing abdominal bloating and occasional pelvic discomfort. She reports normal menstrual cycles and no weight loss or changes in bowel habits. Physical examination is unremarkable except for mild abdominal distension. Routine blood tests, including CA-125, are within normal limits. A CT scan of the pelvis is performed, with a relevant axial image shown. Considering the clinical presentation, the normal CA-125 level, and the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Reassurance and discharge with advice to return if symptoms worsen.
B. Referral to a gynaecological oncologist for further assessment.
C. Repeat CT scan in 3 months to monitor size and characteristics.
D. Laparoscopic cystectomy for definitive diagnosis and treatment.
E. Initiate a trial of oral contraceptive pills to reduce cyst size.
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Diverticulitis in the left lower quadrant. There is outpouching of the colonic wall, wall thickening, and surrounding fat stranding.
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 55-year-old man presents with 2 days of left lower quadrant pain and mild constipation. He denies fever, nausea, or vomiting. On examination, he is afebrile, BP 120/70, HR 65, O2 sat 99% on air. There is mild LLQ tenderness without guarding or rebound. Bloods show WCC 11.5, CRP 30. A CT scan is performed. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the most appropriate initial management plan?

A. Urgent surgical consultation for potential colectomy
B. Discharge with analgesia and advice to return if symptoms worsen
C. Admission for intravenous antibiotics and observation
D. Colonoscopy within 24 hours to assess severity
E. Outpatient oral antibiotics and analgesia
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A contrast enhanced CT scan demonstrating an abdominal aortic aneurysm of 4.8 * 3.8 cm
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents to his general practitioner for a routine check-up. He reports a history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and a 40-pack-year smoking history. He denies any abdominal pain, back pain, or lower extremity claudication. On physical examination, his vital signs are within normal limits. Auscultation of the abdomen is unremarkable, and peripheral pulses are palpable and symmetric. As part of his cardiovascular risk assessment, a contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed. An axial view from the scan is shown. Based on the image and the patient's clinical presentation, which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Prescribe a beta-blocker to reduce blood pressure and heart rate
B. Schedule a repeat CT scan in 6-12 months to monitor aneurysm size
C. Refer to vascular surgery for elective repair
D. Order an ultrasound of the abdomen to further evaluate the aorta
E. Initiate statin therapy and lifestyle modifications
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A contrast enhanced CT scan demonstrating an abdominal aortic aneurysm of 4.8 * 3.8 cm
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the emergency department complaining of new onset left flank pain radiating to his groin. He reports a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia, both managed with medications. He denies any recent trauma. His vital signs are stable: blood pressure 130/80 mmHg, heart rate 88 bpm, respiratory rate 16 breaths/min, and oxygen saturation 98% on room air. Physical examination reveals mild tenderness to palpation in the left flank, but no guarding or rebound tenderness. Peripheral pulses are normal and symmetric. A contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, the axial view is shown. Given the clinical context and the findings on the image, which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Referral to vascular surgery for elective repair
B. Order a renal ultrasound to evaluate for hydronephrosis
C. Prescribe analgesics and schedule a repeat CT scan in 6 months
D. Start oral antibiotics for suspected pyelonephritis
E. Initiate intravenous heparin and consult vascular surgery for urgent repair
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Diverticular disease
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with new onset constipation and abdominal pain. The provided CT was obtained. What is the MOST likely long-term complication?

A. Toxic megacolon
B. Abscess formation
C. Stricture formation
D. Perforation
E. Fistula formation
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CT scan of hepatocellular carcinoma, without and with IV contrast
Image by Zhenyu Pan, Guozi Yang, Tingting Yuan, Lihua Dong, Lihua Dong CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 58-year-old male with cirrhosis secondary to alcohol abuse presents with new-onset ascites and RUQ pain. His AFP is markedly elevated. A CT abdomen with IV contrast is performed, as shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in confirming the suspected diagnosis?

A. Initiate systemic chemotherapy
B. Referral for liver transplantation evaluation
C. Repeat CT scan in 3 months
D. MRI of the abdomen with hepatobiliary contrast
E. Liver biopsy
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Neuroblastoma, CT of the abdomen
Image by RadsWiki CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 4-year-old boy presents with left flank pain and a palpable abdominal mass. His mother reports decreased appetite and recent weight loss. A CT scan of the abdomen is performed (image attached). What is the MOST likely diagnosis?

A. Lymphoma
B. Hepatoblastoma
C. Wilms tumor
D. Renal cell carcinoma
E. Neuroblastoma
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Diverticulitis in the left lower quadrant. There is outpouching of the colonic wall, wall thickening, and surrounding fat stranding.
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 55-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of left lower quadrant abdominal pain, associated with a low-grade fever (38.1°C) and mild nausea. He denies vomiting, diarrhoea, or rectal bleeding. On examination, he has localised tenderness in the left iliac fossa. His vital signs are stable: BP 130/80 mmHg, HR 78 bpm, RR 16/min, SpO2 98% on air. Blood tests show a white cell count of 12.5 x 10^9/L and CRP 45 mg/L. An abdominal CT scan is performed (image provided). Based on the clinical presentation and the provided image, what is the most appropriate setting for this patient's initial management?

A. Inpatient admission for intravenous antibiotics and observation.
B. Outpatient management with oral antibiotics and analgesia.
C. Admission for bowel rest and total parenteral nutrition.
D. Urgent surgical consultation for potential intervention.
E. Discharge home with only analgesia and dietary advice.
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Neuroblastoma, CT of the abdomen
Image by RadsWiki CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old child presents with a 2-month history of increasing abdominal distension and intermittent pain. On examination, a firm, non-tender mass is palpable in the upper abdomen. Initial blood tests reveal mild anaemia. Vital signs are stable. The provided image was obtained as part of the diagnostic evaluation. Based on the findings in the image and the clinical context, which of the following imaging modalities is most likely to provide critical information regarding potential metastatic disease, which is essential for accurate staging and treatment planning in this paediatric patient?

A. Bone scan with Technetium-99m
B. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of the abdomen
C. PET-CT with 18F-FDG
D. 123I-MIBG scintigraphy
E. Whole-body MRI
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Giant hiatal hernia, CT image. 63 year old man.
Image by Jmarchn CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 63-year-old man presents with increasing postprandial fullness. The provided image was obtained. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Barium swallow study
B. Surgical repair
C. PPI therapy
D. Endoscopic surveillance
E. H. pylori testing
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a 6-hour history of sudden onset, severe pain and swelling in his right groin. He reports nausea but no vomiting. On examination, there is a tender, firm, non-reducible lump in the right inguinal region. Bowel sounds are present. Vitals are stable: BP 130/80, HR 75, Temp 36.8°C. A CT scan of the pelvis is performed, shown in the image. Based on the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the most appropriate immediate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Order a follow-up ultrasound in 24 hours
B. Urgent surgical exploration and repair
C. Attempt manual reduction under sedation
D. Administer intravenous antibiotics and observe
E. Discharge home with analgesia and advice to return if symptoms worsen
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Hepatic metastases from a gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC).
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with dysphagia and weight loss. Gastroscopy and biopsy confirm gastric adenocarcinoma. Staging CT imaging is shown. His ECOG performance status is 1. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided images, what is the most appropriate initial management strategy for this patient?

A. Proceed with total gastrectomy and D2 lymphadenectomy
B. Refer for liver transplantation assessment
C. Plan palliative radiotherapy to the gastric primary
D. Initiate systemic chemotherapy
E. Consider transarterial chemoembolisation for hepatic lesions
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Neuroblastoma, CT of the abdomen
Image by RadsWiki CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 4-year-old presents with abdominal distension and back pain for 2 months. Exam reveals a firm, fixed abdominal mass. Vitals are normal. An abdominal CT is performed (axial view shown). Which lab finding would MOST strongly support the suspected diagnosis?

A. Elevated urine homogentisic acid
B. Elevated urine vanillylmandelic acid (VMA)
C. Elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
D. Elevated serum amylase
E. Elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
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CT scan showing hemothorax caused by warfarin use
Image by Cevik Y CC BY 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents to the ED with sudden onset shortness of breath and right-sided chest pain. He has a history of atrial fibrillation and has been taking warfarin for the past 5 years. His INR is currently 6.0. A CT scan of the chest is performed (image attached). What is the MOST appropriate initial management step?

A. Administer intravenous vitamin K and prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC)
B. Administer intravenous tranexamic acid
C. Administer intravenous protamine sulfate
D. Perform a needle thoracostomy
E. Observe and monitor the patient's respiratory status
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Giant hiatal hernia, CT image. 63 year old man.
Image by Jmarchn CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 63-year-old male with a history of mild dysphagia and iron deficiency anemia presents for further evaluation. He denies any recent weight loss or hematemesis. An abdominal CT scan with contrast is performed, the axial view is shown. What is the MOST likely underlying cause of his anemia?

A. Angiodysplasia
B. Cameron lesions
C. Gastric malignancy
D. Duodenal ulcer
E. Esophageal varices
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Endoscopy image of colon adenocarcinoma in sigmoid colon.
Image by Unknown CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old woman presents with a 3-month history of worsening constipation, occasional bright red rectal bleeding, and unintentional weight loss of 4 kg. She reports feeling increasingly tired. Her past medical history includes hypertension and osteoarthritis. On examination, her vital signs are stable. Abdominal examination is soft, non-tender, with no palpable masses. Digital rectal examination reveals no palpable lesion. Blood tests show a haemoglobin of 108 g/L, MCV 78 fL, and ferritin 12 µg/L. A colonoscopy was performed, and the image provided was captured during the procedure. Considering the clinical presentation and the finding observed during the colonoscopy, which of the following investigations is most crucial for determining the extent of disease and guiding definitive treatment planning within the multidisciplinary team framework?

A. Repeat colonoscopy in 3 months
B. Commencement of iron supplementation and review in 4 weeks
C. Urgent surgical consultation for immediate resection
D. CT scan of chest, abdomen, and pelvis
E. Referral for palliative care assessment
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Giant hiatal hernia, CT image. 63 year old man.
Image by Jmarchn CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to his general practitioner with a three-month history of progressive dysphagia to both solids and liquids, accompanied by postprandial regurgitation. He also reports experiencing early satiety and occasional episodes of nocturnal coughing. His past medical history is significant for well-controlled hypertension and a remote history of smoking (quit 20 years ago). Physical examination reveals mild epigastric fullness, but is otherwise unremarkable. His vital signs are within normal limits. An abdominal CT scan with contrast was performed, and a representative image is shown. Given the clinical presentation and the findings on the image, which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Referral to a gastroenterologist for surgical evaluation
B. Esophageal manometry to evaluate esophageal motility
C. Empiric treatment with antibiotics for possible aspiration pneumonia
D. Initiation of a proton pump inhibitor and lifestyle modifications
E. Barium swallow study to further delineate the anatomy
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CT scan of hepatocellular carcinoma, without and with IV contrast
Image by Zhenyu Pan, Guozi Yang, Tingting Yuan, Lihua Dong, Lihua Dong CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 58-year-old male with cirrhosis presents for routine surveillance. His AFP is elevated. A CT scan with contrast is performed (image attached). What is the MOST appropriate next step to determine definitive management?

A. Percutaneous ethanol injection
B. Repeat CT scan in 3 months
C. Initiate sorafenib therapy
D. Systemic chemotherapy
E. Referral to hepatology for consideration of liver transplant
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A contrast enhanced CT scan demonstrating an abdominal aortic aneurysm of 4.8 * 3.8 cm
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 70-year-old male undergoes a CT scan for investigation of chronic back pain. He is otherwise asymptomatic with stable vital signs. The image provided is an axial view from this scan. Based on this finding, what is the most appropriate next step in the patient's management according to current guidelines?

A. Schedule elective endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).
B. Arrange for urgent surgical consultation.
C. No further follow-up is required.
D. Repeat CT angiography in 6 months.
E. Arrange for surveillance ultrasound in 12 months.
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CT scan showing hemothorax caused by warfarin use
Image by Cevik Y CC BY 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents to the ED with sudden onset shortness of breath and right-sided chest pain. He reports a recent fall but denies any significant trauma. He has a history of atrial fibrillation and is currently taking warfarin. His INR is 6.5. A CT scan of the chest is performed (image attached). What is the MOST appropriate immediate next step in management?

A. Observe and repeat INR in 6 hours
B. Administer intravenous vitamin K and prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC)
C. Perform a needle thoracostomy
D. Administer intravenous protamine sulfate
E. Administer intravenous heparin
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old man presents with sudden onset of severe right groin pain and a firm, non-reducible bulge. He reports mild nausea but denies vomiting or change in bowel habit. Vital signs are stable. A CT scan of the pelvis is performed, as shown. Considering the clinical context and the imaging findings, what is the most appropriate immediate management?

A. Obtain a groin ultrasound for further assessment
B. Attempt manual reduction under sedation
C. Arrange for elective surgical consultation
D. Administer analgesia and observe closely
E. Emergency surgical exploration and repair
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Neuroblastoma, CT of the abdomen
Image by RadsWiki CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 4-year-old presents with abdominal distension and back pain for 2 months. Exam reveals a firm, fixed abdominal mass. Vitals are normal. An abdominal CT is performed (axial view shown). Which lab finding would MOST strongly support the suspected diagnosis?

A. Elevated urine vanillylmandelic acid (VMA)
B. Elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
C. Elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
D. Elevated urine urobilinogen
E. Elevated serum amylase
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Ileitis terminalis bei langjaehrigem Morbus Crohn 63W - CT und MRT - 001
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 32-year-old male with a history of Crohn's disease presents with worsening abdominal pain, diarrhea, and a low-grade fever. He reports that his symptoms have been progressively worsening over the past few weeks despite being compliant with his prescribed mesalamine. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, as shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Schedule a colonoscopy with biopsy
B. Start a course of oral prednisone
C. Initiate infliximab therapy
D. Increase the dose of mesalamine
E. Prescribe a course of oral ciprofloxacin and metronidazole
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old man presents to the emergency department with acute, severe right groin pain and a palpable, non-reducible mass. He reports associated nausea but denies vomiting or changes in bowel habit. His vital signs are within normal limits, and bowel sounds are audible. A CT scan of the pelvis is performed, the findings of which are depicted in the image. Given the clinical context and the information revealed by the imaging study, what is the most appropriate immediate management strategy?

A. Urgent surgical consultation for operative intervention.
B. Attempt manual reduction under adequate analgesia and sedation.
C. Request an urgent Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow to the contents.
D. Initiate intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics and monitor closely.
E. Arrange for elective hernia repair in the coming weeks.
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Ultrasonographic picture taken from a patient with left ureteral stone with hydronephrosis, created in Taiwan
Image by morning2k CC BY 2.5 · Source

A 45-year-old male presents with left flank pain radiating to the groin. Urinalysis shows microscopic hematuria. What is the MOST likely diagnosis based on the image?

A. Polycystic kidney disease
B. Pyelonephritis
C. Glomerulonephritis
D. Ureterolithiasis
E. Renal cell carcinoma
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Neuroblastoma, CT of the abdomen
Image by RadsWiki CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents to the emergency department with a one-week history of abdominal pain, decreased appetite, and irritability. His parents also report that he has been increasingly tired and pale. On examination, the child is noted to have a palpable abdominal mass. A CT scan of the abdomen is performed, the axial view is shown. Based on the image and clinical presentation, which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Surgical resection of the mass
B. Measurement of urine vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) and homovanillic acid (HVA) levels
C. Referral for immediate liver biopsy
D. Observation with serial abdominal examinations
E. Initiation of broad-spectrum antibiotics
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Diverticular disease
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old male with LLQ pain and mild fever has the CT abdomen shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Colonoscopy to rule out malignancy
B. Oral antibiotics and outpatient follow-up
C. Stool culture to rule out infectious colitis
D. IV antibiotics and admission for observation
E. Surgical consultation for possible resection
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Giant hiatal hernia, CT image. 63 year old man.
Image by Jmarchn CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 63-year-old man presents to the ED with increasing shortness of breath and epigastric discomfort, particularly after meals. He has a history of well-controlled hypertension and takes no regular medications. Physical examination reveals decreased breath sounds at the left lung base. An abdominal CT scan is performed, the axial view is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Discharge with reassurance and follow-up with a gastroenterologist in 6 months
B. Barium swallow study to further evaluate the anatomy
C. Surgical consultation for elective repair
D. Initiate a trial of proton pump inhibitors and lifestyle modifications
E. Esophageal manometry to assess esophageal motility
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Acute cholecystitis with gallbladder wall thickening, a large gallstone, and a large gallbladder
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents with right upper quadrant pain, fever, and leukocytosis. An abdominal CT scan is performed, as shown. She has a history of similar episodes that resolved spontaneously. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. IV antibiotics and analgesia
B. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
C. Oral ursodeoxycholic acid
D. ERCP with sphincterotomy
E. Percutaneous cholecystostomy tube placement
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Synchronous multiple small bowel intussusceptions in an adult with blue rubber bleb naevus syndrome. CT scan of abdomen showing i) multiple intussusceptions demonstrating doughnut signs (white arrows), intussusceptiens [A], intussusceptum [B], distended loop of small

bowel [C] and ii) haemangioma of right quadratus lumborum muscle (dark arrow).
Image by Lee C, Debnath D, Whitburn T, Farrugia M, Gonzalez F CC BY 2.0 · Source

A 45-year-old patient with a known history of multiple cutaneous vascular lesions presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of intermittent, colicky abdominal pain and nausea. They report chronic fatigue and have a history of iron deficiency anaemia requiring occasional transfusions. On physical examination, vital signs are stable (BP 120/80, HR 75, RR 16, Temp 36.8°C). There is mild diffuse abdominal tenderness without guarding or rebound. Cutaneous examination reveals multiple blue-purple papules and nodules scattered over the trunk and limbs. An abdominal CT scan is performed. Considering the patient's clinical presentation, known history, and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, what is the most appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Discharge home with oral analgesia and urgent outpatient gastroenterology follow-up.
B. Inpatient medical management with pain control, intravenous fluids, and close observation for signs of obstruction or bleeding.
C. Immediate referral for small bowel capsule endoscopy to identify bleeding sources.
D. Initiate empirical treatment with intravenous antibiotics for suspected enteritis.
E. Urgent surgical exploration for reduction of the identified findings.
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Diverticulitis in the left lower quadrant. There is outpouching of the colonic wall, wall thickening, and surrounding fat stranding.
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 65-year-old male presents with left lower quadrant abdominal pain for 3 days, associated with constipation. He denies fever. An abdominal CT scan is performed, the axial view is shown. What dietary advice is MOST appropriate at discharge?

A. Strictly liquid diet for 2 weeks
B. Low-residue diet until symptoms resolve
C. High-fiber diet with adequate fluid intake
D. Gluten-free diet
E. Avoidance of nuts and seeds
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A 34-year-old man presents to the Emergency Department with acute-onset shortness of breath. A CT pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) is ordered, shown in the photograph, confirming a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial treatment option for this patient?

A. Thrombolytic therapy.
B. Caval filter.
C. Unfractionated heparin or low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH).
D. Dabigatran.
E. Warfarin.
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CT scan showing hemothorax caused by warfarin use
Image by Cevik Y CC BY 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old male on warfarin for atrial fibrillation presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe dyspnoea and right-sided pleuritic chest pain. He denies trauma. On examination, he is tachypnoeic, oxygen saturation is 92% on room air. Blood pressure 110/70 mmHg, heart rate 95 bpm. Chest examination reveals decreased breath sounds on the right. A CT scan of the chest is performed. Considering the patient's clinical presentation, medical history, and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, which of the following interventions is most critical to initiate *before* considering invasive drainage?

A. Insertion of a large-bore chest tube
B. Urgent surgical exploration of the chest
C. Administration of prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) or Factor IX complex
D. Initiation of therapeutic heparin infusion
E. Intravenous administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics
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PET-CT of a tuberculoma
Image by Annemie Snoeckx, Pieter Reyntiens, Damien Desbuquoit, Maarten J. Spinhoven, Paul E. Van Schil, Jan P. van Meerbeeck, Paul M. Parizel CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 35-year-old male presents with hemoptysis and weight loss. PET-CT is shown. Bronchoscopy with biopsy is MOST likely to reveal which of the following?

A. Adenocarcinoma in situ
B. Squamous cell carcinoma
C. Granulomatous inflammation with caseous necrosis
D. Small cell carcinoma
E. Mesothelioma
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CT scan showing hemothorax caused by warfarin use
Image by Cevik Y CC BY 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old male on warfarin for atrial fibrillation presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe dyspnoea and right-sided pleuritic chest pain. He denies trauma. On examination, he is tachypnoeic, oxygen saturation is 92% on room air. Blood pressure 110/70 mmHg, heart rate 95 bpm. Chest examination reveals decreased breath sounds on the right. A CT scan of the chest is performed. Considering the patient's clinical presentation, medical history, and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, which of the following represents the most appropriate immediate management strategy?

A. Arrange for urgent bronchoscopy to investigate airway obstruction.
B. Increase warfarin dose and monitor INR.
C. Observe closely in the emergency department with serial chest X-rays.
D. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics and arrange for thoracentesis.
E. Administer Vitamin K and Prothrombinex (PCC) and arrange for chest tube insertion.
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 75-year-old female presents to the emergency department with a 24-hour history of worsening colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and multiple episodes of bilious vomiting. She reports no passage of flatus or stool for the past 18 hours. Her past medical history includes an open appendectomy 30 years ago and a hysterectomy 10 years ago. On examination, she is afebrile, heart rate 92 bpm, blood pressure 130/80 mmHg, respiratory rate 18/min, oxygen saturation 98% on room air. Her abdomen is distended and diffusely tender to palpation, with high-pitched tinkling bowel sounds on auscultation. A plain abdominal X-ray series, including the image provided, was obtained. Given the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, which of the following is the most appropriate *next* investigation to guide definitive management?

A. Repeat plain abdominal X-ray series in 6 hours
B. Upper endoscopy
C. Barium enema
D. MRI of the abdomen
E. CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with intravenous contrast
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Diverticular disease
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the ED with left lower quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and nausea for 3 days. His WBC count is 14,000. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, the axial view is shown. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Stool culture to rule out infectious colitis
B. IV antibiotics and bowel rest
C. Surgical resection of the affected bowel segment
D. Oral antibiotics and outpatient follow-up
E. Flexible sigmoidoscopy to rule out malignancy
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Diverticulitis in the left lower quadrant. There is outpouching of the colonic wall, wall thickening, and surrounding fat stranding.
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 55-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of left lower quadrant abdominal pain, associated with subjective fever and chills. He denies nausea, vomiting, or change in bowel habits. On examination, he is afebrile, heart rate 85 bpm, blood pressure 130/80 mmHg. Abdominal examination reveals tenderness in the left iliac fossa without guarding or rebound. White cell count is 14 x 10^9/L, CRP 80 mg/L. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, the relevant axial image is shown. Considering the patient's presentation and the findings on the provided image, which of the following represents the most appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Discharge with only analgesia and advice to return if symptoms worsen
B. Urgent colonoscopy to assess the affected segment
C. Urgent surgical consultation for potential colectomy
D. Immediate inpatient admission for intravenous antibiotics
E. Outpatient management with oral antibiotics and analgesia
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Diverticular disease
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the ED with left lower quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and leukocytosis. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed. Based on the imaging, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Flexible sigmoidoscopy to rule out malignancy
B. Stool culture to identify infectious etiology
C. Surgical resection of the affected bowel segment
D. IV antibiotics and bowel rest
E. High-fiber diet and increased fluid intake
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Hepatic metastases from a gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC).
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with fatigue, weight loss, and vague abdominal discomfort. His past medical history includes a recent diagnosis of gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC). A CT scan of the abdomen is performed, the results of which are shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Surgical resection of liver lesions
B. Referral for liver transplant evaluation
C. Observation with serial imaging
D. Palliative chemotherapy
E. Initiation of immunotherapy
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Hepatic metastases from a gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC).
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with fatigue, weight loss, and vague abdominal discomfort. His past medical history is significant for a recently diagnosed gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC). A CT scan of the abdomen is performed. Based on the imaging, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Observation with serial imaging
B. Palliative chemotherapy
C. Liver transplantation
D. Radiofrequency ablation of liver lesions
E. Surgical resection of the primary tumor
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A 68-year-old man with a history of diverticulosis presents with recurrent, large volume rectal bleeding. Initial colonoscopy failed to identify or control the source. He remains haemodynamically stable after resuscitation. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Repeat colonoscopy with epinephrine injection
B. Administration of intravenous octreotide
C. Initiation of high-dose proton pump inhibitor therapy
D. Urgent surgical colectomy
E. Angiography with embolization
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PET-CT of a tuberculoma
Image by Annemie Snoeckx, Pieter Reyntiens, Damien Desbuquoit, Maarten J. Spinhoven, Paul E. Van Schil, Jan P. van Meerbeeck, Paul M. Parizel CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 35-year-old male presents with a two-month history of fatigue, unintentional weight loss, and a persistent dry cough. He denies fever or night sweats. A PET-CT scan of the chest was performed (image shown). What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Repeat PET-CT in 3 months
B. Initiate anti-tuberculosis therapy
C. Bronchoscopy with biopsy
D. Empiric antibiotic therapy
E. Sputum culture for bacterial pathogens
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Diverticular disease
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 65-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of worsening left lower quadrant abdominal pain, associated with fever and chills. He reports a change in bowel habit with increased constipation. On examination, he is febrile at 38.6°C and has significant tenderness and guarding in the left iliac fossa. His white cell count is 18 x 10^9/L. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed (image provided). Considering the patient's presentation and the findings on the provided image, which of the following represents the most appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Prescribe oral antibiotics and advise outpatient follow-up with his general practitioner.
B. Schedule an urgent colonoscopy to assess the extent of the disease process.
C. Initiate intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics and arrange hospital admission for monitoring.
D. Provide analgesia and antiemetics, and discharge home with instructions to return if symptoms worsen.
E. Arrange urgent surgical review for consideration of immediate operative intervention.
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Diverticular disease
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 65-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of worsening left lower quadrant abdominal pain, associated with fever and chills. He reports a change in bowel habit with increased constipation. On examination, he is febrile at 38.6°C and has significant tenderness and guarding in the left iliac fossa. His white cell count is 18 x 10^9/L. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed (image provided). Considering the patient's presentation and the findings on the provided image, which of the following represents the most appropriate initial management step in addition to intravenous antibiotics?

A. Percutaneous drainage of the identified collection.
B. Urgent laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy.
C. Close observation with serial abdominal examinations.
D. Commencement of oral metronidazole and discharge home.
E. Flexible sigmoidoscopy to assess mucosal inflammation.
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Synchronous multiple small bowel intussusceptions in an adult with blue rubber bleb naevus syndrome. CT scan of abdomen showing i) multiple intussusceptions demonstrating doughnut signs (white arrows), intussusceptiens [A], intussusceptum [B], distended loop of small

bowel [C] and ii) haemangioma of right quadratus lumborum muscle (dark arrow).
Image by Lee C, Debnath D, Whitburn T, Farrugia M, Gonzalez F CC BY 2.0 · Source

A 42-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a 3-day history of colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. He reports that he has not had a bowel movement in 2 days and has noticed some blood in his vomit. He has a known history of multiple cutaneous hemangiomas since childhood. On examination, his abdomen is distended and tympanic, with tenderness to palpation in all quadrants. Bowel sounds are high-pitched and infrequent. Vitals are stable. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, and a representative image is shown. What is the MOST likely underlying cause of the patient's acute presentation, considering his history and the imaging findings?

A. Sigmoid volvulus
B. Bleeding from intestinal hemangiomas leading to intussusception
C. Appendicitis with perforation
D. Crohn's disease exacerbation
E. Adhesions from previous abdominal surgery
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Hepatic metastases from a gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC).
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with fatigue, weight loss, and vague abdominal discomfort. His past medical history includes a recent diagnosis of gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC). A CT scan of the abdomen is performed, as shown. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Initiation of immunotherapy
B. Palliative chemotherapy
C. Observation with serial imaging
D. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE)
E. Surgical resection of the liver lesions
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Giant hiatal hernia, CT image. 63 year old man.
Image by Jmarchn CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 63-year-old man presents to his GP with a 6-month history of intermittent postprandial fullness and mild dysphagia, particularly with solid foods. He reports occasional regurgitation but denies significant heartburn or chest pain. His vital signs are stable, and physical examination is unremarkable. Recent blood tests show mild iron deficiency anaemia. The provided image is from a CT scan of the chest and upper abdomen performed as part of his investigation. Considering the clinical presentation and the significant anatomical finding demonstrated in the image, what is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Urgent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to assess for malignancy.
B. Initiation of high-dose proton pump inhibitor therapy.
C. Prescription of iron supplements and dietary advice.
D. Barium swallow study to further characterise the anatomy.
E. Referral for surgical assessment and consideration of operative repair.
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