History of Present Illness:

A 60-ish-year-old female with a history of ESRD on HD and HTN but no DM presents with 1 day of left lower quadrant bruising noted at 6 AM along with generalized abdominal pain and distention.  She has nausea but no vomiting or fever.  No history of same.  No trauma.  No other complaints.

Vital Signs & Physical Exam:

Vital signs are normal except for elevated BP.  Physical exam is also normal except for peripheral edema and the skin findings below

What is the most likely diagnosis?

  • A) AAA
  • B) Pancreatitis
  • C) Trauma
  • D) Cancer

SCROLL DOWN FOR ANSWERS & 1-MINUTE CONSULT

 

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QUIZ ANSWER: What is the most likely diagnosis?

  • A) AAA – good thought but more likely to cause flank ecchymosis (Grey-Turner sign)
  • B) Pancreatitis – correct.  Lipase was elevated
  • C) Trauma – good thought but not injecting insulin
  • D) Cancer

1-Minute Consult on this topic: Click HERE and scroll.

 

CASE CONCLUSION: Lipase mildly elevated at 145 (ULN 60).  Repeat was 345.  CT showed ascites, but no definite pancreatitis.

 

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