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Acute pancreatitis — RCPSC EM MCQ

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ModerateGI/Abdominal emergenciesAcute pancreatitisRCPSC EM

A 48-year-old man presents CTAS 2 with severe epigastric pain radiating to the back after heavy alcohol intake. HR is 122, BP is 96/58, lipase is 1900 U/L, calcium is low, and CT later shows peripancreatic fluid without gas. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Acute pancreatitis

Severe epigastric pain radiating to the back with markedly elevated lipase is acute pancreatitis; early severity assessment and resuscitation are important.

Reference: Royal College Emergency Medicine exam format and training experiences