Question

A 42-year-old woman presents with sudden onset severe epigastric pain radiating to the back, associated with vomiting. Serum amylase is three times the upper limit of normal. She drinks heavily. Which is the most appropriate immediate management in the acute setting?

Accepted Answer

Admit for IV fluids, analgesia and supportive care

Answer

Start high-dose oral Prednisolone

Answer

Discharge with oral analgesia and arrange outpatient ultrasound

Answer

Start broad-spectrum oral antibiotics as monotherapy at home

Answer

Offer laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 24 hours and discharge

Practice question

A 42-year-old woman presents with sudden onset severe epigastric pain radiating to the back, associated with vomiting. Serum amylase is three times the upper limit of normal. She drinks heavily. Which is the most appropriate immediate management in the acute setting?