SPEX Radiology and Imaging Flashcards
6 cards from real SPEX practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 SPEX Radiology and Imaging flashcards as text
A patient with blunt abdominal trauma has free fluid on FAST exam but is hemodynamically stable. What is the next step?
Answer: CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast
In a hemodynamically stable patient, CT abdomen/pelvis with contrast is the definitive next step to characterize the source and extent of injury.
Which X-ray finding is characteristic of rickets in children?
Answer: Widening and fraying of the metaphysis
Rickets causes inadequate mineralization, leading to widening, cupping, and fraying of the metaphyses on X-ray, particularly at the wrist and knee.
On CT angiography, which finding is diagnostic of aortic dissection?
Answer: An intimal flap with true and false lumens
CTA demonstrating an intimal flap separating the true and false lumens is the hallmark and diagnostic finding of aortic dissection.
Which type of pneumothorax requires immediate needle decompression before imaging confirmation?
Answer: Tension pneumothorax with hemodynamic instability
Tension pneumothorax causing hemodynamic instability is a clinical diagnosis requiring emergent needle decompression without waiting for imaging.
What is the significance of a Kerley B line seen on chest X-ray?
Answer: Pulmonary interstitial edema
Kerley B lines are short horizontal lines at the lung periphery representing thickened interlobular septa due to pulmonary interstitial edema.
A 65-year-old with known AAA has sudden severe back pain. Which imaging study should be obtained immediately?
Answer: CT angiography of the abdomen and pelvis
CTA provides rapid, detailed assessment of aortic aneurysm rupture or leak and guides surgical planning in hemodynamically stable patients.