Learning objectives
We present a spectrum of conditions affecting the left upper quadrant of the abdomen.
These include those diseases that are exclusive to this locality with some where disease from elsewhere has spread to the left upper quadrant.
We also include pathology outside the abdomen that may cause left upper quadrant pain.
We describing the characteristic imaging findings and pearls to aid diagnosis.
Background
Left upper quadrant pathology is relatively less common compared to conditions presenting elsewhere in the abdomen.
As a consequence,
this region can be a blind spot to radiologists with potential for pathology to be missed.
However,
pathology here can range from benign diseases to life-threatening conditions,
which if overlooked can have a significant impact on patient morbidity and mortality.
Making a radiological diagnosis is especially important if the clinical presentation is non-specific,
if the findings are incidental or where disease in this region causes referred...
Imaging findings OR Procedure details
The range of conditions encompass pathology within organs that are anatomically located within the left upper quadrant of the peritoneal cavity.
However,
diseases can be multifocal and conditions affecting other organs can spread to this region.
It is also important to note that left upper quadrant pain does not necessarily imply that the pathology is intraabdominal.
It can be due to disease processes above the diaphragm,
ouside the abdomen,
within the abdominal wall.
For example,
basal lung pathology can cause pain in the left upper...
Conclusion
We hope that describing this spectrum of pathology will increase confidence and heighten awareness,
particularly amongst trainees,
to make prompt and accurate diagnoses.
We also hope to remind radiologists to evaluate this region with the same degree of scrutiny as the other quadrants of the abdomen.
Personal Information
Acknowledgements:
Louise Wynd for data collection.
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