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vomiting

Practice targeted AMC-style multiple-choice questions on vomiting.

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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with sudden onset intermittent severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and lethargy. On examination, he is pale and has a palpable mass in the right upper quadrant. An ultrasound is performed (image provided). Based on this finding, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
B. Pneumatic or hydrostatic enema reduction
C. Immediate surgical exploration
D. Abdominal CT scan with contrast
E. Observation with serial abdominal exams
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with abdominal distension, obstipation, and vomiting. He has a history of prior abdominal surgery. An upright abdominal X-ray is performed. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Colonoscopy
B. Surgical consultation
C. Barium enema
D. Stool softeners
E. Oral antibiotics
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A previously healthy 3-year-old boy presents with colicky abdominal pain and non-bilious vomiting. Physical exam reveals a palpable abdominal mass in the RUQ. An ultrasound is performed, revealing the finding shown. What is the MOST likely lead point?

A. Polyp
B. Appendix
C. Lymphoma
D. Ileocolic valve
E. Meckel's diverticulum
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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 38-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of intermittent abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. He reports passing dark, tarry stools. He has a known history of multiple cutaneous hemangiomas since childhood. On examination, his abdomen is distended and tender to palpation, particularly in the periumbilical region. Bowel sounds are hyperactive. Vitals are: HR 110 bpm, BP 100/60 mmHg, RR 20 breaths/min, SpO2 97% on room air, Temp 37.2°C. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, and a representative image is shown. Given the clinical presentation and imaging findings, what is the MOST appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Endoscopic evaluation with possible cauterization
B. Initiation of high-dose corticosteroids
C. Administration of intravenous antibiotics
D. Surgical exploration
E. Observation with serial abdominal examinations
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with intermittent abdominal pain, vomiting, and bloody stools. An ultrasound is performed, the image is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Stool culture
B. Surgical resection
C. Observation and analgesia
D. Air enema
E. Appendectomy
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Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 3-week-old male presents with non-bilious projectile vomiting after each feed. He is otherwise well-appearing. An abdominal X-ray is unremarkable. An upper GI contrast study is performed, and relevant images are shown. What is the MOST likely acid-base disturbance in this patient?

A. Respiratory alkalosis
B. Hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis
C. Normal acid-base balance
D. Respiratory acidosis
E. Hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents to the emergency department with a 2-week history of progressively worsening non-bilious vomiting, which has become projectile over the past few days. His parents report he is feeding eagerly but vomits most feeds shortly after completion. He has had fewer wet nappies than usual and appears more lethargic. On examination, he is irritable but consolable. His weight is below the 3rd percentile, having dropped from the 10th percentile at birth. Vital signs are: Temperature 36.8°C, Heart Rate 155 bpm, Respiratory Rate 40 bpm, Blood Pressure 85/50 mmHg, Oxygen Saturation 98% on room air. Capillary refill time is 3 seconds. Abdominal examination reveals a soft, non-distended abdomen with active bowel sounds; no palpable masses are appreciated. Initial blood gas shows pH 7.52, pCO2 40 mmHg, Bicarbonate 32 mmol/L, Na+ 132 mmol/L, K+ 3.0 mmol/L, Cl- 88 mmol/L. A point-of-care ultrasound was performed, and the image provided was obtained. Considering the clinical presentation, the laboratory results, and the findings demonstrated in the image, which of the following represents the most appropriate immediate therapeutic intervention?

A. Intravenous administration of 5% dextrose in 0.45% sodium chloride.
B. Oral rehydration therapy with an electrolyte solution.
C. Urgent surgical consultation for pyloromyotomy without prior fluid resuscitation.
D. Placement of a nasogastric tube for continuous gastric drainage.
E. Intravenous administration of 0.9% sodium chloride with added potassium chloride.
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with intermittent abdominal pain, vomiting, and currant jelly stools. An ultrasound is performed, revealing the finding shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Appendectomy
B. Exploratory laparotomy
C. Air enema
D. Stool culture
E. Observation and intravenous fluids
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after feeds. He is otherwise well-appearing, with normal vital signs and no abdominal distension. An ultrasound was performed, and an image is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Barium swallow study
B. Upper endoscopy with biopsy
C. Surgical consultation for pyloromyotomy
D. Initiate erythromycin therapy
E. Trial of thickened feeds
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 5-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting. Ultrasound (shown). What electrolyte abnormality is MOST likely?

A. Hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis
B. Hyperkalemia
C. Hyponatremia
D. Hypophosphatemia
E. Hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old presents with projectile vomiting after feeds. An ultrasound is performed (shown). What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Trial of thickened feeds
B. Upper endoscopy with biopsy
C. Reassurance and close follow-up
D. Start erythromycin
E. Surgical consultation for pyloromyotomy
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with intermittent abdominal pain and vomiting. Stool examination reveals a positive occult blood test. An ultrasound is performed, as shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Air enema
B. Appendectomy
C. Laparotomy
D. Stool culture
E. IV antibiotics
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 35-year-old presents with colicky abdominal pain and vomiting. An X-ray is performed. What is the MOST likely finding on subsequent CT imaging?

A. Splenic infarct
B. Pneumatosis intestinalis
C. Free intraperitoneal air
D. Mesenteric stranding
E. Transition point with proximal bowel dilatation
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A 62-year-old man presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe headache, nausea, and vomiting. He has a history of poorly controlled hypertension and is currently on no medications. On examination, he is drowsy but arousable, with a blood pressure of 210/120 mmHg and a heart rate of 90 bpm. Neurological examination reveals right-sided hemiparesis and a left gaze preference. A CT scan of the head shows a large hyperdense area in the left basal ganglia with surrounding edema. What is the most appropriate initial management for this patient?

A. Immediate surgical evacuation of the hematoma
B. Intravenous labetalol to lower blood pressure
C. Oral antihypertensive therapy to gradually lower blood pressure
D. Intravenous mannitol to reduce intracranial pressure
E. Intravenous thrombolysis to dissolve the clot
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A 32-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with severe right lower abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. She reports that the pain started suddenly a few hours ago and has been worsening. Her last menstrual period was two weeks ago. On examination, she has tenderness and guarding in the right lower quadrant. A pregnancy test is negative. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Pelvic inflammatory disease
B. Renal colic
C. Ovarian torsion
D. Ectopic pregnancy
E. Acute appendicitis
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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 63-year-old woman with a 20-year history of Crohn's disease presents with worsening abdominal pain, bloating, and occasional post-prandial vomiting. She is currently managed with mesalazine and budesonide. Physical examination reveals mild right lower quadrant tenderness. Laboratory tests show a slightly elevated CRP. Given her presentation and the provided imaging, what is the most appropriate next step in her management?

A. Perform an urgent colonoscopy with biopsies
B. Increase the dose of budesonide
C. Continue current medical therapy and monitor symptoms
D. Switch mesalazine to an oral corticosteroid like prednisone
E. Refer for surgical assessment for potential stricture or complication
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Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 3-week-old male infant is brought to the emergency department by his parents due to persistent, non-bilious vomiting after each feeding for the past week. The vomiting has become increasingly forceful. The infant appears mildly dehydrated, with slightly decreased skin turgor. His weight is below the 5th percentile for his age. An abdominal X-ray is unremarkable. Given the clinical presentation, the physician orders further imaging, the results of which are shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Perform an upper endoscopy with biopsy
B. Initiate a trial of thickened feeds
C. Start oral erythromycin
D. Surgical pyloromyotomy
E. Administer intravenous antibiotics
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents with increasing frequency of non-bilious vomiting after feeds for the past week. He is otherwise well, afebrile, and has wet nappies. On examination, he is alert and interactive. Abdominal examination is unremarkable. Vitals are stable. You order an ultrasound, which is shown. Based on the clinical presentation and the provided image, what is the most appropriate immediate next step in management?

A. Obtain an upper gastrointestinal barium study.
B. Discharge home with advice on feeding techniques and follow-up.
C. Proceed directly to surgical pyloromyotomy.
D. Initiate intravenous fluid resuscitation and correct electrolyte abnormalities.
E. Prescribe a proton pump inhibitor and trial smaller, more frequent feeds.
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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 male presents with a painful, irreducible right groin mass. He reports vomiting and abdominal distension. His vitals are: HR 110, BP 100/60, RR 22, SpO2 96% RA. The provided image was obtained. What is the next step?

A. Attempt manual reduction with sedation
B. Surgical consultation for emergent repair
C. Order a repeat CT scan with contrast in 6 hours
D. Start a clear liquid diet
E. Administer intravenous antibiotics
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 65-year-old male presents with groin pain and vomiting. The provided image was taken. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Discharge with stool softeners
B. Administer intravenous antibiotics
C. Apply ice packs to the groin
D. Start a clear liquid diet
E. Surgical consultation for possible bowel resection
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with sudden onset, intermittent, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and lethargy. On examination, he is pale but haemodynamically stable. An abdominal ultrasound is performed. Based on the clinical presentation and the provided image, what is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Urgent surgical consultation for laparotomy
B. Nasogastric tube insertion and IV fluids only
C. Air enema reduction
D. Observation with serial abdominal examinations
E. CT abdomen and pelvis
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male presents with persistent non-bilious vomiting after feeding. He appears hungry and has lost weight since birth. Examination reveals visible peristaltic waves across the abdomen. An abdominal ultrasound is performed, as shown. What is the most likely acid-base disturbance seen in this patient?

A. Metabolic alkalosis
B. Respiratory acidosis
C. Normal acid-base balance
D. Respiratory alkalosis
E. Metabolic acidosis
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents with vomiting and abdominal pain. An abdominal X-ray is performed. What is the MOST likely underlying cause?

A. Appendicitis
B. Diverticulitis
C. Volvulus
D. Adhesions from prior surgery
E. Pancreatitis
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 5-week-old male infant presents to the emergency department with a 3-day history of non-bilious, projectile vomiting after each feed. He is otherwise well-appearing and afebrile. His mother reports that he is feeding well but seems increasingly hungry after vomiting. On examination, the infant is alert and active, with slightly dry mucous membranes. Abdominal examination is unremarkable, with no palpable masses. An ultrasound of the abdomen is performed, the image of which is shown. What is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Surgical consultation for pyloromyotomy
B. Administer intravenous ondansetron and observe
C. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with biopsy
D. Discharge home with instructions for frequent small-volume feeds
E. Initiate a trial of thickened feeds
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with a 12-hour history of intermittent, severe abdominal pain, non-bilious vomiting, and decreased activity. Parents report redcurrant jelly stool. On exam, a palpable mass is noted. Vitals are stable. An ultrasound is performed (shown above). Considering the clinical picture and the image findings, which non-surgical intervention is indicated?

A. Urgent surgical exploration
B. Barium enema reduction
C. Pneumatic reduction under fluoroscopic guidance
D. Intravenous fluid resuscitation and observation
E. Administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics
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A 67-year-old man presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe headache, nausea, and vomiting. He has a history of hypertension and is currently on amlodipine. On examination, he is drowsy but arousable, with a blood pressure of 210/120 mmHg and a heart rate of 90 bpm. Neurological examination reveals a left-sided hemiparesis and a right-sided facial droop. A CT scan of the head shows a hyperdense lesion in the right basal ganglia with surrounding edema. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management step?

A. Intravenous labetalol to lower blood pressure
B. Oral aspirin to prevent further clot formation
C. Immediate surgical evacuation of the hematoma
D. Intravenous alteplase for thrombolysis
E. Intravenous mannitol to reduce intracranial pressure
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents to the ED with colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. He reports no bowel movements for 3 days. His abdomen is distended and tender. An X-ray is performed. Given the findings, what is the MOST likely underlying cause of this patient's condition?

A. Hernia
B. Volvulus
C. Adhesions from prior surgery
D. Intussusception
E. Diverticulitis
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with sudden onset, intermittent, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and lethargy. On examination, he is pale and has a palpable mass in the right upper quadrant. An ultrasound is performed (image provided). Based on the clinical presentation and the image, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Pneumatic reduction under fluoroscopy
B. Urgent surgical exploration
C. CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis
D. Admission for observation and IV fluids
E. Administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics
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Ovarian Cyst
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 28-year-old female presents to the ED with acute onset right lower quadrant pain. She reports nausea and vomiting. Her last menstrual period was 6 weeks ago, and she denies any vaginal bleeding. She is hemodynamically stable. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, with a relevant image shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Emergency hysterectomy
B. Laparoscopic cystectomy
C. Administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics
D. Initiate anticoagulation therapy
E. Expectant management with analgesia
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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 58-year-old male presents to the emergency department complaining of severe, constant right upper quadrant pain for the past 12 hours. He reports associated nausea and several episodes of non-bilious vomiting. He denies any fever or chills. His past medical history includes type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension, both managed with oral medications. On examination, the patient is alert and oriented. His vital signs are: temperature 37.2°C, heart rate 105 bpm, blood pressure 150/90 mmHg, respiratory rate 20 breaths/min, and SpO2 97% on room air. Abdominal examination reveals significant tenderness to palpation in the right upper quadrant, with guarding. Murphy's sign is positive. Laboratory investigations reveal a white blood cell count of 14,000/µL with neutrophilic predominance, total bilirubin of 2.5 mg/dL, alkaline phosphatase of 250 U/L, ALT of 150 U/L, and AST of 120 U/L. The provided image was obtained. Given the clinical scenario and the findings on the image, which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Initiate intravenous antibiotics and schedule laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 72 hours
B. Start ursodeoxycholic acid and advise a low-fat diet
C. Perform endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to rule out choledocholithiasis
D. Order a hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan to confirm the diagnosis
E. Administer intravenous fluids and analgesics, and discharge home with oral antibiotics and outpatient surgical follow-up
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents to the emergency department with a 2-week history of progressively worsening non-bilious vomiting, which has become projectile over the past few days. His parents report he is feeding eagerly but vomits most feeds shortly after completion. He has had fewer wet nappies than usual and appears more lethargic. On examination, he is irritable but consolable. His weight is below the 3rd percentile, having dropped from the 10th percentile at birth. Vital signs are: Temperature 36.8°C, Heart Rate 155 bpm, Respiratory Rate 40 bpm, Blood Pressure 85/50 mmHg, Oxygen Saturation 98% on room air. Capillary refill time is 3 seconds. Abdominal examination reveals a soft, non-distended abdomen with active bowel sounds; no palpable masses are appreciated. Initial blood gas shows pH 7.52, pCO2 40 mmHg, Bicarbonate 32 mmol/L, Na+ 132 mmol/L, K+ 3.0 mmol/L, Cl- 88 mmol/L. A point-of-care ultrasound was performed, and the image provided was obtained. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the most appropriate immediate next step in the management of this infant?

A. Administer intravenous ondansetron and observe for improvement in vomiting.
B. Discharge home with instructions for smaller, more frequent feeds and review by the general practitioner in 24 hours.
C. Insert a nasogastric tube for continuous drainage and commence total parenteral nutrition.
D. Obtain an urgent upper gastrointestinal contrast study to confirm the diagnosis and assess for malrotation.
E. Initiate intravenous fluid resuscitation with 0.9% sodium chloride and potassium chloride supplementation, and arrange urgent surgical consultation.
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Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents to the emergency department with a 5-day history of progressively worsening non-bilious vomiting, which has become projectile over the past 48 hours. He is exclusively formula-fed and his parents report decreased wet nappies and increased irritability. On examination, he is alert but appears slightly lethargic. His weight is below his birth weight. Capillary refill time is 3 seconds. Vitals are: HR 150 bpm, RR 40 bpm, T 37.2°C, BP 85/50 mmHg. Abdominal examination is soft, non-distended, and no masses are definitely palpable. Initial blood gas shows pH 7.52, pCO2 40 mmHg, HCO3 32 mmol/L, Na+ 130 mmol/L, K+ 3.0 mmol/L, Cl- 85 mmol/L. Urea and creatinine are mildly elevated. An imaging study was performed, shown above. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings on the imaging study, which of the following is the most critical immediate management step?

A. Initiate intravenous fluid resuscitation with 0.9% sodium chloride and potassium supplementation.
B. Insert a nasogastric tube for gastric decompression.
C. Administer intravenous ondansetron to control vomiting.
D. Arrange for urgent surgical consultation for pyloromyotomy.
E. Obtain a paediatric surgical ultrasound of the abdomen.
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents to the emergency department with a 2-week history of progressively worsening non-bilious vomiting, which has become projectile over the past few days. His parents report he is feeding eagerly but vomits most feeds shortly after completion. He has had fewer wet nappies than usual and appears more lethargic. On examination, he is irritable but consolable. His weight is below the 3rd percentile, having dropped from the 10th percentile at birth. Vital signs are: Temperature 36.8°C, Heart Rate 155 bpm, Respiratory Rate 40 bpm, Blood Pressure 85/50 mmHg, Oxygen Saturation 98% on room air. Capillary refill time is 3 seconds. Abdominal examination reveals a soft, non-distended abdomen with active bowel sounds; no palpable masses are appreciated. Initial blood gas shows pH 7.52, pCO2 40 mmHg, Bicarbonate 32 mmol/L, Na+ 132 mmol/L, K+ 3.0 mmol/L, Cl- 88 mmol/L. A point-of-care ultrasound was performed, and the image provided was obtained. Considering the clinical presentation, the laboratory findings, and the abnormality demonstrated in the provided image, which of the following best explains the mechanism leading to the observed electrolyte and acid-base derangements?

A. Loss of gastric acid (HCl) through vomiting, leading to compensatory renal hydrogen ion excretion and potassium wasting.
B. Increased aldosterone secretion due to dehydration, causing sodium retention and potassium excretion.
C. Excessive sodium and water loss in stool due to malabsorption.
D. Shift of potassium into intracellular space due to metabolic alkalosis.
E. Impaired renal bicarbonate excretion due to decreased glomerular filtration rate from dehydration.
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 5-week-old male presents with non-bilious projectile vomiting. An ultrasound is performed (shown). What acid-base disturbance is MOST likely?

A. Hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis
B. Hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis
C. Respiratory acidosis
D. Respiratory alkalosis
E. Normal acid-base balance
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Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 3-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after each feed. He appears hungry and eagerly feeds, but vomits shortly after. An abdominal X-ray is ordered, the result of which is shown. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Surgical pyloromyotomy
B. Upper endoscopy with biopsy
C. Start erythromycin
D. Administer ondansetron
E. Trial of thickened feeds
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with sudden onset intermittent severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and lethargy. On examination, he is pale but haemodynamically stable. Abdominal examination reveals a palpable mass in the right upper quadrant. An ultrasound is performed (image provided). What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics
B. Admission for observation and IV fluids
C. Abdominal CT scan with contrast
D. Immediate surgical exploration
E. Air or hydrostatic enema reduction
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents with a 1-week history of progressively worsening non-bilious vomiting, often projectile, occurring shortly after feeds. His parents report he is constantly hungry and irritable but has had poor weight gain. On examination, he is alert but appears thin. Vital signs are stable. Abdominal examination is soft, non-tender, with no palpable mass. An abdominal ultrasound is performed, the image of which is shown. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings depicted, what is the most appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Referral to a paediatric gastroenterologist for further investigation
B. Discharge home with advice on smaller, more frequent feeds
C. Urgent upper gastrointestinal contrast study
D. Surgical pyloromyotomy after fluid and electrolyte correction
E. Trial of antiemetic medication and thickened feeds
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents with abdominal distension, vomiting, and inability to pass flatus for 48 hours. He has a history of prior bowel resection. Examination reveals a tympanitic abdomen and tenderness to palpation. His vitals are stable. An abdominal X-ray is performed, as shown. Considering the clinical context and the radiographic findings, what is the MOST likely underlying cause of this presentation?

A. Post-surgical adhesions
B. Inflammatory bowel disease stricture
C. Volvulus
D. Hernia
E. Malignancy
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old infant presents with a 1-week history of increasing non-bilious projectile vomiting after feeds. He is otherwise well, afebrile, and has wet nappies. Examination is unremarkable. An ultrasound is performed, shown in the image. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings in the provided image, what is the most appropriate definitive surgical intervention for this condition?

A. Antrectomy
B. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication
C. Ramstedt pyloromyotomy
D. Gastrostomy tube insertion
E. Pyloric dilatation
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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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Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 4-week-old male presents with persistent projectile vomiting after each feed. He appears hungry and eagerly feeds, but vomits shortly after. An abdominal X-ray is ordered, the result of which is shown. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Start a trial of hypoallergenic formula
B. Initiate intravenous antibiotics
C. Surgical pyloromyotomy
D. Administer antiemetics and observe
E. Upper endoscopy with biopsy
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A 45-year-old man presents to the emergency department with severe epigastric pain radiating to his back, which started suddenly a few hours ago. He has a history of alcohol use disorder and has been drinking heavily over the past week. On examination, he is diaphoretic and in distress. His vital signs show a blood pressure of 100/60 mmHg, heart rate of 110 bpm, respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute, and temperature of 37.8°C. Laboratory tests reveal elevated serum lipase and amylase levels. An abdominal ultrasound shows no gallstones. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management step for this patient?

A. Nasogastric tube insertion
B. Intravenous fluid resuscitation
C. Initiation of broad-spectrum antibiotics
D. Immediate surgical consultation
E. Oral rehydration therapy
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A 28-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe right lower abdominal pain. She reports nausea and vomiting but denies fever or urinary symptoms. Her last menstrual period was two weeks ago, and she is sexually active. On examination, she has tenderness in the right lower quadrant with guarding. A pelvic ultrasound reveals a 5 cm right ovarian cyst with free fluid in the pelvis. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Pelvic inflammatory disease
B. Ruptured ovarian cyst
C. Ovarian torsion
D. Ectopic pregnancy
E. Appendicitis
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with intermittent severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and lethargy. On examination, he is afebrile with a soft but slightly distended abdomen. An ultrasound is performed (image provided). Based on the clinical presentation and the image findings, what is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Pneumatic reduction under fluoroscopy
B. Admission for observation and IV fluids
C. Discharge home with pain relief
D. CT abdomen and pelvis
E. Urgent surgical exploration
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents to the emergency department with a 12-hour history of intermittent, severe abdominal pain, drawing his legs up to his chest. He has vomited several times. His vital signs are stable: HR 110, BP 95/60, RR 24, Temp 37.2°C. On examination, he is irritable but comfortable between episodes of pain. His abdomen is soft but mildly distended. A focused abdominal ultrasound is performed, yielding the image provided. Based on the clinical presentation and the findings shown, what is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Pneumatic reduction under fluoroscopy
B. Abdominal CT scan with contrast
C. Admission for observation and serial abdominal exams
D. Immediate surgical consultation for laparotomy
E. Administration of broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with sudden onset intermittent severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and lethargy. On examination, he is pale and has a palpable mass in the right upper quadrant. An ultrasound is performed (image provided). Based on this finding, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Pneumatic or hydrostatic enema reduction
B. Immediate surgical exploration
C. Abdominal CT scan with contrast
D. Observation with IV fluids and analgesia
E. Barium swallow study
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Pyloric stenosis as seen on ultrasound in a 6 week old
Image by Dr Laughlin Dawes CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after feeds. He is otherwise well-appearing, with normal vital signs. An abdominal ultrasound is performed (image attached). What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Initiate a proton pump inhibitor
B. Surgical consultation for pyloromyotomy
C. Reassurance and close follow-up
D. Upper endoscopy with biopsy
E. Trial of thickened feeds
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with sudden onset, intermittent, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and lethargy. Examination reveals a pale child with a soft abdomen. Vitals are stable. An abdominal ultrasound is performed (image provided). What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Admission for observation and serial abdominal exams
B. Intravenous antibiotics and fluid resuscitation
C. CT abdomen/pelvis with contrast
D. Pneumatic reduction under fluoroscopy
E. Urgent surgical exploration
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A 72-year-old man with a history of a reducible inguinal hernia presents to the emergency department with severe groin pain and a firm, tender mass in the right inguinal region. He reports that he has been unable to reduce the hernia despite his usual maneuvers. He also reports nausea and vomiting for the past 6 hours. On examination, his vital signs are stable, but he appears uncomfortable. The mass in his groin is erythematous and exquisitely tender to palpation. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Administration of intravenous antibiotics and observation
B. Surgical exploration
C. CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with intravenous contrast
D. Attempt manual reduction with sedation and analgesia
E. Ultrasound of the groin to assess blood flow
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An ultrasound showing target sign which is a characteristic finding for intussusception on ultrasound, this ultrasound is for a 3 year old boy with intestinal intussusception.
Image by Frank Gaillard CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 3-year-old boy presents with intermittent abdominal pain, vomiting, and currant jelly stools. An ultrasound is performed, revealing the image shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Observation and supportive care
B. Surgical resection
C. IV antibiotics
D. Appendectomy
E. Air enema
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