Nokea
R. R. is a 71-year-old female who presents with left lower quadrant pain that started out as cramping but has become more constant over the last day. She reports constipation over the last few days but admits that for as long as she can remember she has had variable bowel habits. Her vital signs are normal, but physical examination reveals some tenderness in the left lower quadrant. Which diagnostic test is most likely to support the leading differential diagnosis?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In a 71-year-old female presenting with left lower quadrant pain and a history of constipation, the most likely differential diagnosis to consider is diverticulitis. A CT scan with IV, oral, and rectal contrast is the diagnostic test of choice for confirming suspected diverticulitis. It is considered the gold standard imaging modality for evaluating acute abdominal pain and can help identify diverticula, inflammation, abscesses, and complications such as perforation or obstruction.