ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography) Practice Test

Which imaging technique is considered complementary to ultrasound in diagnosing appendicitis?

1. MRI

2. X-ray

3. CT scan

4. Nuclear medicine scan

The correct answer is: CT scan

The CT scan is widely recognized as a complementary imaging technique to ultrasound when diagnosing appendicitis. Ultrasound is often the first-line imaging choice, especially in pediatric patients, due to its non-invasive nature and lack of ionizing radiation. However, in certain cases where the ultrasound results are inconclusive or where the anatomy is challenging to assess, a CT scan provides a more detailed view of the abdomen and pelvis. CT scans utilize advanced imaging technology, allowing for high-resolution images that can reveal the presence of inflammation, fluid collections, or perforations associated with appendicitis. They are particularly useful in adult patients, where the inflammatory signs may be less evident on ultrasound. The ability of CT to visualize surrounding structures and potential complications of appendicitis makes it an invaluable tool in confirming a diagnosis and guiding the management plan. The other options are not typically as effective as a complementary technique in this context. MRI is generally reserved for specific cases, such as in pregnant patients, due to its higher cost and longer scan time. X-rays have limited applicability in this diagnosis and may miss subtle findings. Nuclear medicine scans are not routinely used for appendicitis diagnosis and are more specialized for other conditions.