Abdominal and Pelvic Radiology Practice Questions

Q: The 'spider leg' sign on an intravenous pyelogram (IVP) suggests which of the following conditions?

Polycystic kidney. **Explanation:** The **'Spider leg' appearance** on an Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) is a classic radiological sign of **Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD)**. This appearance occurs because multiple large, fluid-filled cysts within the renal parenchyma exert pressure on the collecting system. This leads to the **elongation, narrowing, and stretching** of the renal calyces, making them resemble the long, thin legs of a spider. **Analysis of Options:** * **Polycystic Kidney (Correct):** As explained, the bilateral enlargement of the kidneys by multiple cysts distorts the pelvicalyceal system into thin, elongated structures. * **Renal Stone:** Typically presents as a radiopaque shadow (on KUB) or a filling defect (on IVP). It may cause proximal dilatation but does not cause the characteristic stretching of calyces. * **Hypernephroma (Renal Cell Carcinoma):** Usually presents as a localized mass causing focal displacement or amputation of a single calyx (distortion), rather than the generalized "spider leg" stretching seen in polycystic disease. * **Hydronephrosis:** Characterized by the **ballooning or blunting** of the calyces (clubbing) due to obstruction, which is the morphological opposite of the thinned "spider legs." **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Swiss Cheese Appearance:** The nephrogram phase of an IVP in ADPKD shows multiple radiolucent areas (cysts) against the enhancing parenchyma. * **ADPKD Associations:** Berry aneurysms (Circle of Willis), hepatic cysts (most common extra-renal site), and mitral valve prolapse. * **Imaging Choice:** While IVP shows the 'spider leg' sign, **Ultrasonography** is the screening modality of choice, and **CT/MRI** are more sensitive for characterization.

Q: Diagnose the uterine condition shown on hysterosalpingogram.

Bicornuate uterus. ***Bicornuate uterus*** - Shows **two diverging uterine horns** with a **fundal indentation >1 cm** and **intercornual angle >105°** on HSG. - Associated with **recurrent pregnancy loss** and **preterm delivery** due to reduced uterine capacity and abnormal contractions. *Unicornuate uterus* - HSG would show a **single horn** with **banana-shaped** or **comma-shaped** uterine cavity. - Often associated with **ipsilateral renal agenesis** and represents incomplete development of one Müllerian duct. *Arcuate uterus* - Shows a **mild fundal indentation <1 cm** with **intercornual angle <105°** on HSG. - Considered a **mild variant** with minimal clinical significance and lower risk of pregnancy complications. *Normal uterus* - HSG demonstrates a **smooth triangular uterine cavity** with no fundal indentation. - Shows **symmetrical fallopian tubes** with normal spillage of contrast into the peritoneal cavity.

Q: A linear filling defect on ERCP is characteristic of which of the following conditions?

Worm in the biliary tree. **Explanation:** The characteristic finding of a **linear filling defect** on Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is highly suggestive of **Biliary Ascariasis** (*Ascaris lumbricoides*). These worms are long, cylindrical nematodes that can migrate from the duodenum into the common bile duct (CBD). On imaging, they appear as smooth, longitudinal, non-shadowing filling defects that may sometimes show movement. **Analysis of Options:** * **Worm in the biliary tree (Correct):** *Ascaris* typically presents as a long, linear, or "spaghetti-like" filling defect. If the contrast enters the worm's alimentary canal, it may create a "double-tube" sign. * **Bile duct stone:** These typically appear as **rounded or faceted** filling defects, often with a meniscus sign. They are usually mobile but not linear. * **Pancreatic duct stone:** These are usually radio-opaque on plain X-ray and appear as irregular filling defects within the pancreatic duct, often associated with chronic pancreatitis, rather than linear shapes in the biliary tree. * **Stricture:** A stricture presents as a **segmental narrowing** or "cutoff" of the duct (e.g., the "rat-tail" appearance in malignancy) rather than a filling defect within a patent lumen. **NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **USG Finding:** The "Strip sign" or "Inner tube sign" (a thick-walled tube with a central canal) is the classic sonographic appearance of Biliary Ascariasis. * **Clinical Presentation:** Often presents as biliary colic in a patient from an endemic area, sometimes triggered by pregnancy or prior cholecystectomy. * **Management:** Most cases are managed conservatively with anthelmintics; ERCP is reserved for extraction if the worm fails to migrate back to the intestine.

Q: The endometrium during the proliferative phase appears as all except:

Maximum thickness. The endometrial appearance on ultrasound changes predictably according to the menstrual cycle. This question tests the distinction between the **proliferative** and **secretory** phases. ### **Explanation of the Correct Answer** **Option C (Maximum thickness)** is the correct answer because the endometrium reaches its **maximum thickness during the secretory phase** (luteal phase), not the proliferative phase. Under the influence of progesterone, the endometrium becomes edematous and glycogen-rich, typically measuring between **7–14 mm**. In contrast, the proliferative phase endometrium is thinner, usually measuring 4–8 mm. ### **Analysis of Incorrect Options** * **B & D (Trilaminar appearance & Hypoechoic stratum functionale):** During the late proliferative phase (periovulatory period), the endometrium classically appears as a **"triple-line" (trilaminar)** structure. This consists of a central echogenic line (uterine cavity), surrounded by two **hypoechoic layers (stratum functionale)**, which are bounded by the outer echogenic lines. * **A (Echogenic stratum basale):** The outermost layers of the trilaminar appearance represent the stratum basale and the interface with the myometrium, which appear echogenic (bright) on ultrasound. ### **NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls** * **Early Proliferative Phase:** Thin, bright echogenic line (2–4 mm). * **Late Proliferative (Periovulatory):** Classic **Trilaminar** appearance. * **Secretory Phase:** Uniformly **hyperechoic** (bright) and thick due to mucus and glycogen storage; the "triple-line" disappears. * **Post-menopausal thickness:** Should ideally be ** 5 mm or if there is post-menopausal bleeding, an endometrial biopsy is indicated to rule out malignancy. * **Best time for USG:** To evaluate for polyps or fibroids, the early proliferative phase (Day 5–10) is best as the endometrium is thinnest.

Q: Spider leg deformity of calyces on IVP is seen in which of the following conditions?

Hypernephroma. **Explanation:** The **"Spider Leg Deformity"** on Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) is a classic radiological sign of **Hypernephroma** (Renal Cell Carcinoma). **Why Hypernephroma is correct:** Hypernephroma is a solid parenchymal tumor that originates from the renal cortex. As the tumor grows, it exerts a mass effect on the adjacent collecting system. This leads to the **elongation, narrowing, and stretching** of the renal calyces. On an IVP, these stretched, thin calyces resemble the long, spindly legs of a spider. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Hydronephrosis:** Characterized by the dilation of the pelvis and calyces. Early signs include "cupping" loss, followed by "clubbing" and eventually "ballooning" of calyces, rather than stretching. * **Wilm’s Tumor:** While it also causes mass effect, it typically presents as a large intrarenal mass that causes **distortion and displacement** of the entire kidney and collecting system, often described as a "claw sign" or "mangled" appearance, rather than the specific spider leg pattern. * **Pyelonephritis:** Acute pyelonephritis often shows a normal IVP or generalized swelling. Chronic pyelonephritis is characterized by **cortical scarring** overlying a clubbed calyx. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Triad of RCC:** Hematuria (most common), flank pain, and palpable mass (seen in only 10% of cases). * **Stauffer Syndrome:** Reversible hepatic dysfunction associated with RCC (a common paraneoplastic syndrome). * **Investigation of Choice:** Contrast-Enhanced CT (CECT) is the gold standard for diagnosing and staging RCC. * **Other IVP Signs:** "Flower-vase appearance" is seen in Horseshoe kidney; "Cobra head sign" is seen in Ureterocele.

Q: Gas under the diaphragm is seen in which of the following conditions?

All of the above. **Explanation:** The presence of gas under the diaphragm on an upright chest X-ray is the hallmark of **pneumoperitoneum** (free intraperitoneal air). This occurs when air escapes from a hollow viscus or is introduced into the peritoneal cavity. * **Enteric Fever (Typhoid):** Intestinal perforation is a dreaded complication of enteric fever, typically occurring in the 3rd week of illness due to necrosis of Peyer's patches in the terminal ileum. This leads to the escape of bowel gas into the peritoneum, appearing as a radiolucent crescent under the diaphragm. * **Chilaiditi’s Syndrome:** This is a **pseudopneumoperitoneum**. It occurs when a loop of colon (usually the hepatic flexure) is interposed between the liver and the right hemidiaphragm. While it is not "free air," it radiographically presents as gas under the diaphragm. It is distinguished by the presence of **haustral markings** within the gas shadow. * **Iatrogenic Pneumoperitoneum:** Air is commonly introduced into the abdominal cavity during laparoscopy (insufflation with $CO_2$) or laparotomy. This air can persist for several days post-surgery and is a normal postoperative finding. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** 1. **Best View:** An **upright (erect) chest X-ray** is the most sensitive plain film for detecting pneumoperitoneum (can detect as little as 1–2 ml of air). 2. **Alternative View:** If the patient cannot stand, a **left lateral decubitus** view is preferred (air rises to sit between the liver and the right lateral abdominal wall). 3. **Rigler’s Sign:** Seeing both sides of the bowel wall due to free air (indicates large volume pneumoperitoneum). 4. **Cupola Sign:** Air trapped under the central tendon of the diaphragm in the midline.

Q: Claw sign or pincer sign is seen in which of the following conditions?

Intussusception. **Explanation:** **1. Why Intussusception is Correct:** The **Claw sign** (also known as the **Pincer sign**) is a classic radiological finding seen on a Barium Enema or Contrast CT. It occurs when the advancing head of the intussusceptum (the prolapsing segment) invaginates into the intussuscipiens (the receiving segment). The contrast material outlines the space between these two layers, creating two "prongs" or a "claw" appearance around the intussusceptum. This is a pathognomonic sign for **Intussusception**. **2. Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Ischemic Colitis:** Typically presents with **"Thumbprinting"** on imaging, which represents focal submucosal edema and hemorrhage. * **Ileocaecal TB:** Characterized by a **"Conical Caecum"** (shrunken, retracted caecum) and the **"Stierlin Sign"** (rapid emptying of the inflamed terminal ileum). * **Volvulus:** Sigmoid volvulus classically shows the **"Coffee Bean sign"** on X-ray and the **"Whirlpool sign"** or **"Bird’s Beak sign"** on contrast studies. **3. NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **Ultrasound (Investigation of Choice):** Look for the **Target sign** (or Donut sign) in transverse section and the **Pseudokidney sign** in longitudinal section. * **Clinical Triad:** Intermittent abdominal pain, "currant jelly" stools, and a sausage-shaped palpable mass. * **Treatment:** Non-operative reduction using **Hydrostatic (saline/contrast) or Pneumatic (air) enemas** is the first-line treatment in stable children. * **Lead Point:** In adults, intussusception is usually secondary to a pathological lead point (e.g., malignancy), whereas in children, it is often idiopathic (associated with lymphoid hyperplasia).

Q: Which imaging modality is considered the gold standard for diagnosing Crohn's disease?

CT enteroclysis. **Explanation:** **CT Enteroclysis (CTE)** is currently considered the gold standard for diagnosing and evaluating Crohn’s disease. Unlike standard imaging, enteroclysis involves the administration of neutral contrast via a nasojejunal tube to achieve maximal bowel distension. This allows for superior visualization of the mucosal surface, wall thickness, and transmural involvement. It is highly sensitive for detecting early mucosal lesions, strictures, and extraluminal complications like fistulae or abscesses. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **Upper GI series:** While useful for visualizing the proximal GI tract, it lacks the sensitivity to detect transmural involvement or extraluminal complications and provides poor visualization of the distal ileum (the most common site for Crohn's). * **Capsule endoscopy:** Though excellent for detecting early mucosal erosions in the small bowel, it is **contraindicated** if a stricture is suspected (due to the risk of capsule retention) and cannot evaluate extraluminal disease. * **CECT:** Standard CECT is useful in acute settings but lacks the bowel distension required to accurately differentiate between active inflammation and normal collapsed loops of bowel [1]. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **MRE (Magnetic Resonance Enterography):** Often preferred in clinical practice over CTE to avoid ionizing radiation, especially since Crohn’s patients require frequent follow-up [1]. * **String Sign of Kantor:** A classic radiological finding in Crohn’s (terminal ileum narrowing) seen on barium studies [1]. * **Cobblestoning:** A characteristic endoscopic finding due to deep longitudinal and transverse ulcers. * **Skip Lesions:** Crohn's is characterized by discontinuous involvement, unlike the continuous spread seen in Ulcerative Colitis.

Question 1

Which of the following is the most probable diagnosis based on the provided X-ray of the abdomen?

Accepted Answer

Multiple air-fluid levels, suggestive of adhesions and bands

Answer

Gas under the diaphragm, suggestive of peritonitis

Answer

Bird beak appearance, suggestive of volvulus

Answer

Normal X-ray, PA view

Question 2

The 'spider leg' sign on an intravenous pyelogram (IVP) suggests which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Polycystic kidney

Answer

Renal stone

Answer

Hypernephroma

Answer

Hydronephrosis

Question 3

Diagnose the uterine condition shown on hysterosalpingogram.

Accepted Answer

Bicornuate uterus

Answer

Unicornuate uterus

Answer

Arcuate uterus

Answer

Normal uterus

Question 4

A linear filling defect on ERCP is characteristic of which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Worm in the biliary tree

Answer

Bile duct stone

Answer

Pancreatic duct stone

Answer

Stricture

Question 5

The endometrium during the proliferative phase appears as all except:

Accepted Answer

Maximum thickness

Answer

Echogenic stratum basale

Answer

Trilaminar appearance

Answer

Hypoechoic stratum functionale

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a radiological sign of uterine fibroid?

Accepted Answer

Interruption of the junctional zone and focal thinning of myometrium on T2w MRI.

Answer

Calcification seen as echogenic foci with shadowing on USG.

Answer

High signal intensity on T1 weighted image around centrally located myoma suggests red degeneration.

Answer

Hypoechoic, isoechoic or hyper echoic compared to normal myometrium.

Question 7

Spider leg deformity of calyces on IVP is seen in which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Hypernephroma

Answer

Hydronephrosis

Answer

Wilm's tumor

Answer

Pyelonephritis

Question 8

Gas under the diaphragm is seen in which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

All of the above

Answer

Enteric fever with intestinal perforation

Answer

Chilaiditi's syndrome

Answer

Iatrogenic pneumoperitoneum

Question 9

Claw sign or pincer sign is seen in which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Intussusception

Answer

Ischemic colitis

Answer

Ileocaecal TB

Answer

Volvulus

Question 10

Which imaging modality is considered the gold standard for diagnosing Crohn's disease?

Accepted Answer

CT enteroclysis

Answer

Upper GI series

Answer

Capsule endoscopy

Answer

CECT (Contrast-enhanced computed tomography)

Abdominal and Pelvic Radiology — MCQs

Abdominal and Pelvic Radiology — MCQs

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