Imaging

Question 1

True or false: For the detection of urinary calculi, there is no need for IV contrast as the majority of calculi are dense and easily seen on CT.

Answer 1

True

Question 2

What is the difference between a X-ray abdomen and KUB?

Answer 2

Abdomen includes upper abdomen (diaphragm) while KUB includes pelvis area

Question 3

CT scans are (more/less) sensitive than radiographs.

Answer 3

More

Question 4

True or false: contrast CT is used for all UTIs

Answer 4

False
Uncomplicated UTIs do not require imaging

Question 5

How is a complicated UTI/pyelonephritis diagnosed via a contrast CT?

Answer 5

Areas of infection/necrosis (indicative of pyelonephritis) are seen as wedge-shaped areas of hypoenhancement

Question 6

What imaging modality is used for infants with UTI?

Answer 6

1) US
2) MCU (check for reflux)
3) DMSA (check for cortical defects)

Question 7

What are the phases of a multi-phase renal CT and how are they different?

Answer 7

1) Unenhanced/plain

2) Cortico-medullary phase (30-40s post IV)
- can differentiate cortex from medulla

3) Nephrographic phase (100s post IV)
- contrast homogenous in kidneys
- used for diagnosing infection

4) Delayed/pyelographic phase
- excreting → contrast in collecting system

Question 8

Which imaging modality is best for screening for hydronephrosis?

Answer 8

US KUB

Question 9

What is the main modality used to image urinary tract neoplasms?

Answer 9

Contrast CT