Question

A 58-year-old with suspected appendicitis has pregnancy ruled out. Which imaging choice minimizes radiation while maintaining accuracy when ultrasound is nondiagnostic and MRI is unavailable?

Accepted Answer

Proceed with CT abdomen/pelvis with IV contrast

Answer

Delay imaging for clinical observation only

Answer

Order plain abdominal radiographs

Answer

Repeat ultrasound only

Answer

Nuclear medicine scan

Practice question

A 58-year-old with suspected appendicitis has pregnancy ruled out. Which imaging choice minimizes radiation while maintaining accuracy when ultrasound is nondiagnostic and MRI is unavailable?