Question 1

A patient reports a sudden onset of constant, sharp abdominal pain radiating to the back. The examiner notes both direct and rebound tenderness with palpation of the abdomen. What is the significance of this finding?

A) Compression of the common bile duct
B) Presence of a pancreatic pseudocyst
C) Retroperitoneal hemorrhage
D) Severe acute pancreatitis with peritonitis

D

Accepted Answer

The sudden onset of constant, sharp abdominal pain radiating to the back along with direct and rebound tenderness suggest severe acute pancreatitis with peritonitis. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Compression of the common bile duct, presence of a pancreatic pseudocyst, and retroperitoneal hemorrhage may also cause abdominal pain but do not typically present with the specific combination of symptoms present in this case.

Question 2

Which is the most common cause of pancreatitis in the United States?&#10;A) Ethyl alcohol&#10;B) Gallstones&#10;C) Hyperlipidemia&#10;D) Trauma

Accepted Answer

Gallstones are the most common cause of pancreatitis in the United States, accounting for approximately 35% of all cases. Ethyl alcohol is the second most common cause, accounting for about 20% of cases. Hyperlipidemia and trauma are less common causes.

Question 3

The provider suspects that a patient has chronic pancreatitis. Which diagnostic tests will be most helpful to confirm this diagnosis?&#10;A) Blood glucose and fecal fat&#10;B) Complete blood count (CBC)&#10;C) Liver function tests (LFTs)&#10;D) Serum amylase and lipase levels

Accepted Answer

A

Deck 124: Pancreatitis