What question did this study set out to answer?

To assess the cause of abdominal pain and distension in an elderly woman with a surgical history.

April 21, 2026Open Access

Elderly Woman With Abdominal Pain and Distension

Key Points

To assess the cause of abdominal pain and distension in an elderly woman with a surgical history.
Conducted physical examination and vital signs assessment.
Performed laboratory testing, including electrolyte levels.
Utilized imaging techniques such as a bedside radiograph and CT scan.
The patient exhibited significant abdominal distention and tenderness.
Laboratory results indicated hypokalemia.
Intravenous fentanyl was provided for pain relief prior to further evaluation.

Abstract

An 80-year-old woman with a history of hypothyroidism and cholecystectomy performed 4 months prior presented to the emergency department with a 2-day history of progressive abdominal pain and distention.Vital signs were significant for a blood pressure of 147/87 mmHg.Abdominal examination was remarkable for significant distention, tympany to percussion, and diffuse tenderness to palpation.The skin was warm and dry, negative for jaundice.Laboratory testing revealed hypokalemia.A bedside radiograph (Fig 1) and computed tomography scan (Figs 234) were obtained.The surgery team was consulted, and intravenous (IV) fentanyl was administered for analgesia prior to admission.

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Cite This Study

Quach et al. (Sat,) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69e7138bcb99343efc98cf98 https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acepjo.2026.100398

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