Duodenal Perforation: CT Scan Diagnosis, Emergency Imaging Signs, and Life-Saving Radiology Interpretation Guide
Duodenal Perforation: Why This Hidden Emergency Matters A 62-year-old man arrives at the emergency department with two days of severe right lower abdominal pain . He recently used NSAIDs for a cold. His past history includes treating Helicobacter pylori infection. At first glance, this may resemble appendicitis, renal colic, or diverticulitis. But imaging reveals something far more dangerous: air surrounding the right kidney and extending into the retroperitoneum . The final diagnosis? Duodenal perforation . This condition is one of the most important emergency diagnosis entities in abdominal medicine. It can rapidly lead to sepsis, shock, multiorgan failure, and death if not recognized early. For radiologists, emergency physicians, surgeons, and informed readers, understanding the CT scan signs of duodenal perforation can save lives. What Is Duodenal Perforation? Duodenal perforation refers to a full-thickness disruption of the duodenal wall , allowing air, gastric acid, bile, bacte...