A 3-year-old boy presented to the Emergency Department with progressive abdominal pain and vomiting. Examination revealed a distended abdomen. Which of the following is the most ap... A 3-year-old boy presented to the Emergency Department with progressive abdominal pain and vomiting. Examination revealed a distended abdomen. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management? A. MRI abdomen B. CT scan abdomen C. US abdomen D. Plain abdominal x-ray
Understand the Problem
The question describes a clinical scenario involving a 3-year-old boy presenting with abdominal pain, vomiting, and a distended abdomen. The question is asking which imaging modality is most appropriate as the initial step in managing this patient. We must select the best diagnostic test for this situation.
Answer
D. Plain abdominal x-ray
The most appropriate initial management is D. Plain abdominal x-ray.
Answer for screen readers
The most appropriate initial management is D. Plain abdominal x-ray.
More Information
A plain abdominal X-ray, also known as a KUB (kidney, ureter, bladder) X-ray, is often the first imaging study performed to evaluate abdominal pain, vomiting, and distention, especially in children. It is readily available, quick, and involves lower radiation exposure compared to CT scans.
Tips
A common mistake is to immediately jump to more advanced imaging like CT or MRI. However, plain X-rays are valuable as an initial step due to their accessibility and lower radiation, especially in pediatric cases.
Sources
- Small-Bowel Obstruction Imaging and Diagnosis - emedicine.medscape.com
- Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder X-ray | Johns Hopkins Medicine - hopkinsmedicine.org
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