skip to main content

Abdominal compartment syndrome in acute pancreatitis — SCE Acute Medicine MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardCritical Care MedicineAbdominal compartment syndrome in acute pancreatitisSCE Acute Medicine

A 49-year-old woman with acute pancreatitis has increasing abdominal distension, oliguria and ventilatory difficulty. Bladder pressure is 28 mmHg, lactate is rising and creatinine has doubled despite resuscitation. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Abdominal compartment syndrome

Sustained intra-abdominal pressure above 20 mmHg with new organ dysfunction defines abdominal compartment syndrome. Simple ileus would not explain rising bladder pressure with renal and ventilatory compromise. SBP is less likely without cirrhosis and ascites as the main context. Early surgical and critical care involvement is needed because decompression may be required.

Reference: World Society of the Abdominal Compartment Syndrome guidance, NICE NG104