PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the most effective imaging study for diagnosing pancreatitis?

1. Ultrasound

2. CT scan

3. MRI

4. X-ray

The correct answer is: CT scan

The most effective imaging study for diagnosing pancreatitis is a CT scan, as it provides detailed cross-sectional images of the abdomen. A CT scan is particularly useful in detecting complications associated with pancreatitis, such as fluid collections, necrosis, or abscess formation. It can also help assess the severity of the pancreatitis and guide management decisions. Ultrasound may be utilized as an initial screening tool, especially in cases of suspected gallstone-related pancreatitis, as it can visualize gallstones and assess biliary dilation. However, it has limitations in evaluation of the pancreas itself and may not consistently reveal the presence or quality of pancreatic inflammation. MRI can be beneficial in certain cases, particularly to assess for complications such as pancreatic necrosis, but it is generally not the first-line diagnostic tool for pancreatitis due to its higher cost and lower availability in acute settings. X-ray is typically of limited use in diagnosing pancreatitis, as it does not provide specific information about the pancreas and may not reveal any abnormalities associated with the condition. Therefore, the CT scan is considered the most effective imaging study for diagnosing pancreatitis.