Your 55-year-old male patient presents to the emergency department with complaints of sudden development of severe right-sided, colicky lower abdominal pain. He cannot sit still on the examining table. The patient has previously been in good health. On physical examination, there are no signs of peritoneal inflammation. A urine sample reveals hematuria and crystalluria. Which is the next diagnostic test that should be done immediately?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of severe, colicky lower abdominal pain along with hematuria and crystalluria suggests the possibility of a kidney stone. A spiral computed tomography (CT) scan is the most sensitive and specific test for diagnosing kidney stones, making it the best immediate next step for this patient.

Your 55-Year-Old Male Patient Presents to the Emergency Department with Complaints