← Back to Topics

vomiting

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

Related Topics

Post-embolization arteriogram showing coiled aneurysm (indicated by yellow arrows) of the posteriorcerebral artery with a residual aneurysmal sac.
Image by Promod Pillai, Aftab Karim, Anil Nanda CC BY 2.0 · Source

A 72-year-old woman with a history of well-controlled hypertension presents with sudden-onset headache and vomiting. Neurological exam reveals mild neck stiffness but is otherwise normal. A CT angiogram reveals a posterior communicating artery aneurysm, which was subsequently coiled. The image shows a post-coiling angiogram. 24 hours post-procedure, she develops worsening headache and new-onset right-sided weakness. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Start aspirin and clopidogrel
B. Increase the dose of her antihypertensive medication
C. Perform lumbar puncture
D. Repeat CT angiogram
E. Administer nimodipine
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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. Vitals are stable. An ultrasound is performed, shown above. 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. Administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics
C. CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis
D. Admission for observation and serial abdominal exams
E. Air enema reduction
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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.
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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, and his weight has remained stable since birth. On examination, an olive-shaped mass is palpated in the epigastric region when the infant is not actively vomiting. An upper GI series is performed, and the image is shown. What is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Initiate a trial of thickened feeds
B. Surgical pyloromyotomy
C. Administer intravenous ondansetron and observe
D. Start erythromycin to stimulate gastric emptying
E. Perform an upper endoscopy with biopsy
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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 sudden onset, severe, colicky abdominal pain, drawing his legs up, and non-bilious vomiting. His parents report he has been listless between episodes and had a small amount of red jelly-like stool earlier. Vitals: T 37.2°C, HR 110, RR 24, BP 95/60, Sats 98% on air. Abdominal examination reveals tenderness in the right upper quadrant and a palpable mass. Bowel sounds are diminished. A point-of-care ultrasound is performed. Based on the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided ultrasound image, what is the most appropriate initial management step for this patient?

A. Initiate intravenous antibiotics and observe for improvement.
B. Proceed directly to urgent surgical exploration.
C. Attempt pneumatic or hydrostatic reduction under fluoroscopic guidance.
D. Administer opioid analgesia and arrange for outpatient follow-up.
E. Obtain a contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis.
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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 to the emergency department with a 2-day history of right upper quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. She reports that the pain started gradually but has become increasingly severe and constant. She denies any fever or chills. Her past medical history is significant for hypertension and hyperlipidemia, both well-controlled with medications. On physical examination, she is afebrile, with a heart rate of 92 bpm, blood pressure of 140/85 mmHg, and an oxygen saturation of 98% on room air. Abdominal examination reveals marked tenderness to palpation in the right upper quadrant with guarding. Murphy's sign is positive. The provided image was obtained. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Initiate intravenous antibiotics and observe
B. Perform an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
C. Order a hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan
D. Administer oral analgesics and discharge with outpatient follow-up
E. Surgical consultation for cholecystectomy
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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 woman with poorly controlled diabetes presents with severe RUQ pain, fever, and vomiting for 3 days. The provided CT was performed. What is the MOST appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Urgent cholecystectomy
B. Oral ursodeoxycholic acid
C. IV antibiotics and bowel rest
D. Percutaneous cholecystostomy tube placement
E. ERCP with stone extraction
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 3-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after feeds. An upper GI series is performed (image shown). What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Barium swallow study
B. Surgical pyloromyotomy
C. Medical management with erythromycin
D. Trial of thickened feeds
E. Upper endoscopy with biopsy
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question

A 32-year-old man presents to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain that started suddenly 6 hours ago. The pain is located in the right lower quadrant and is associated with nausea and vomiting. On examination, he has rebound tenderness and guarding in the right lower quadrant. His temperature is 37.8°C, heart rate is 110 beats per minute, and blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg. A CT scan of the abdomen shows an inflamed appendix with surrounding fat stranding. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Percutaneous drainage
B. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
C. Appendectomy
D. Observation and repeat imaging
E. Intravenous antibiotics only
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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 abdominal distension, obstipation, and vomiting. He reports a history of multiple abdominal surgeries. An upright abdominal X-ray is performed. Based on the image, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. CT abdomen with contrast
B. Increase oral fluid intake
C. Stool softeners
D. Surgical consultation
E. Oral antibiotics
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question

A 6-month-old baby has abdominal swelling and vomiting. An abdominal X-ray shows a 'double bubble' sign. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Pyloric stenosis
B. Duodenal atresia
C. Meconium ileus
D. Intussusception
E. Malrotation with volvulus.
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question

A neonate, born at 38 weeks gestation, presents with bilious vomiting starting 12 hours after birth. Antenatal ultrasound revealed polyhydramnios. On examination, the baby is active and has a distended upper abdomen but a scaphoid lower abdomen. An abdominal X-ray shows a 'double bubble' sign. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this neonate, considering potential associated complications?

A. Immediately perform a contrast enema to rule out meconium ileus as a cause of the obstruction.
B. Initiate intravenous fluids, nasogastric decompression, and prepare for surgical intervention after stabilization.
C. Begin feeds with a hydrolysed formula to assess tolerance and rule out milk protein allergy.
D. Start the neonate on broad-spectrum antibiotics to cover potential bacterial translocation.
E. Perform an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to visualize the obstruction and obtain biopsies.
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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, 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, which of the following non-surgical interventions is typically attempted first to resolve the underlying issue?

A. Nasogastric tube insertion for decompression and bowel rest
B. Pneumatic reduction under fluoroscopic guidance
C. Administration of intravenous opioids for pain control followed by observation
D. Intravenous fluid resuscitation and broad-spectrum antibiotics
E. Urgent surgical exploration and manual reduction
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 4-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after feeding. He is irritable and appears mildly dehydrated. An abdominal exam reveals a palpable, olive-shaped mass in the epigastrium. An upper GI contrast study is performed, and relevant images are shown. What is the MOST appropriate initial step in managing this patient's electrolyte imbalance?

A. Initiate feeding with a hypoallergenic formula
B. Administer intravenous normal saline bolus
C. Administer intravenous sodium bicarbonate
D. Administer oral rehydration solution
E. Administer intravenous potassium chloride
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 3-week-old male infant presents with persistent, non-bilious projectile vomiting after each feed. He appears hungry and eagerly accepts the bottle, but vomits shortly after. On examination, mild dehydration is noted. An abdominal X-ray is ordered, the relevant image is attached. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Perform an upper endoscopy
B. Administer intravenous ondansetron
C. Initiate a course of erythromycin
D. Surgical pyloromyotomy
E. Start a trial of thickened feeds
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question

A 45-year-old man presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe headache, nausea, and vomiting. He describes the headache as the worst he has ever experienced. He has a history of hypertension but is otherwise healthy. On examination, he is alert but in distress due to the headache. His blood pressure is 180/110 mmHg, heart rate is 90 bpm, and he has no focal neurological deficits. A CT scan of the head shows no acute intracranial hemorrhage. What is the next best step in management?

A. Administer analgesics and observe
B. Repeat CT scan with contrast
C. MRI of the brain
D. Lumbar puncture
E. Start antihypertensive therapy
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 6-week-old male infant presents with a 2-week history of progressively worsening projectile non-bilious vomiting after feeds. He has lost weight and appears lethargic. Initial bloods show a hypochloremic, hypokalaemic metabolic alkalosis. After fluid resuscitation, the image is obtained. What is the most appropriate definitive management for this patient?

A. Further imaging with abdominal ultrasound
B. Placement of nasogastric tube for gastric decompression
C. Trial of medical management with atropine
D. Discharge home with thickened feeds and anti-reflux medication
E. Surgical pyloromyotomy
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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 32-year-old male presents to the emergency department complaining of intermittent abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting for the past 24 hours. He reports passing a small amount of blood in his stool this morning. He denies any fever or chills. His past medical history is significant for multiple cutaneous hemangiomas, which he has had since childhood. On physical examination, his abdomen is mildly distended and tender to palpation in the periumbilical region. Bowel sounds are hyperactive. The patient is hemodynamically stable. A CT scan of the abdomen is performed, the results of which are shown. Given the clinical presentation and imaging findings, what is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Initiation of high-dose corticosteroids
B. Surgical exploration
C. Colonoscopy with biopsy
D. Barium enema
E. Observation with serial abdominal examinations
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question

A 30-year-old man presents to the emergency department with severe right lower quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The pain started around the umbilicus and then localized to the right lower quadrant. On examination, he has tenderness and guarding in the right lower quadrant. His temperature is 38.3°C, heart rate is 100 bpm, and blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Diverticulitis
B. Acute appendicitis
C. Acute cholecystitis
D. Renal colic
E. Gastroenteritis
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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 palpable mass. Vitals stable. Ultrasound performed. Based on the clinical presentation and the provided image, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Urgent surgical exploration
B. Pneumatic reduction under fluoroscopy
C. Abdominal CT scan with contrast
D. Admission for observation and IV fluids
E. Administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question

A 62-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe headache, nausea, and vomiting. She describes the headache as the worst she has ever experienced. Her medical history includes hypertension and hyperlipidemia, for which she is on regular medication. On examination, she is alert but in distress, with a blood pressure of 180/100 mmHg, heart rate of 90 bpm, and respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute. Neurological examination reveals neck stiffness but no focal neurological deficits. A CT scan of the head shows no acute intracranial hemorrhage. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Start intravenous antihypertensive therapy
B. Administer antiemetics and observe
C. MRI of the brain
D. Repeat CT scan with contrast
E. Lumbar puncture
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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 frequency of non-bilious, projectile vomiting occurring shortly after feeds. He has lost some weight since his last check-up. Examination is otherwise unremarkable. An ultrasound is performed, shown in the image. Based on the clinical presentation and the provided image, which of the following electrolyte abnormalities is the most likely consequence if this condition remains untreated?

A. Hypernatremic metabolic acidosis
B. Hyponatremic respiratory alkalosis
C. Hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis
D. Hypokalemic respiratory acidosis
E. Hypercalcemic metabolic alkalosis
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 5-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after feeds. He is irritable and appears dehydrated. An upper GI contrast study is performed, with relevant images attached. What is the MOST likely underlying cause?

A. Malrotation with volvulus
B. Duodenal atresia
C. Gastroesophageal reflux
D. Hypertrophy of the pyloric sphincter
E. Esophageal stricture
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
Diverticular disease
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old male presents with acute onset of LLQ pain, fever, and vomiting. His WBC count is elevated. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed. Based on the image, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Flexible sigmoidoscopy
B. IV antibiotics and bowel rest
C. Stool softeners
D. Surgical resection
E. High-fiber diet
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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. Considering the patient's clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, which of the following represents the most appropriate immediate next step in her management?

A. Perform an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.
B. Arrange for an urgent contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan of the abdomen and pelvis.
C. Discharge the patient home with oral analgesia and instructions to return if symptoms worsen.
D. Administer a high-dose osmotic laxative orally.
E. Proceed directly to exploratory laparotomy.
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 4-week-old male presents with persistent projectile vomiting after feeding. He is otherwise well-appearing. An upper GI series is performed, with relevant images attached. What acid-base disturbance is MOST likely present?

A. Respiratory acidosis
B. Normal acid-base balance
C. Hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis
D. Hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis
E. Respiratory alkalosis
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male with a history of reflux presents with epigastric pain and vomiting. An X-ray is performed (shown). What is the most likely complication?

A. Gastric volvulus
B. Pericarditis
C. Esophageal stricture
D. Aortic dissection
E. Pneumonia
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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 primary purpose of inserting a nasogastric tube in this patient?

A. Obtaining a sample of gastric contents for analysis.
B. Administering oral contrast for further imaging.
C. Decompressing the dilated bowel loops and reducing vomiting.
D. Providing nutritional support to the patient.
E. Facilitating the passage of flatus.
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Image by Adityagupta95 CC0 1.0 · Source

A 4-week-old male presents with projectile vomiting after feeding. He is irritable and appears dehydrated. An upper GI series is performed, as shown. After addressing immediate concerns, what is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Perform an upper endoscopy with biopsy
B. Administer intravenous antibiotics
C. Surgical pyloromyotomy
D. Start H2 receptor antagonist therapy
E. Initiate a trial of thickened feeds
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question

A 65-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 antihypertensive medication. On examination, he is alert but in distress due to the headache. His blood pressure is 180/110 mmHg, heart rate is 90 bpm, and he has no focal neurological deficits. A CT scan of the head shows a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management step in this patient?

A. Administer nimodipine to prevent cerebral vasospasm
B. Perform immediate surgical clipping of the aneurysm
C. Administer mannitol to reduce intracranial pressure
D. Start intravenous labetalol to control blood pressure
E. Initiate anticonvulsant therapy to prevent seizures
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question
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. His vital signs are stable. On examination, he is pale. An abdominal ultrasound is performed, shown in the image. Based on the clinical presentation and imaging findings, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Admission for intravenous fluids and observation
B. Urgent laparotomy for surgical reduction
C. Administer intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics
D. Pneumatic reduction under fluoroscopic guidance
E. Obtain a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis
Mark this as a high-quality question
Mark this as a poor-quality or problematic question