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Difficulty: EasyInterpreting Imaging Results

Match each classic radiographic imaging finding (sign) with its most likely associated clinical condition.

  • "Thumbprint sign" on a lateral soft-tissue neck radiographEpiglottitis
  • "Steeple sign" on an anteroposterior (AP) neck radiographCroup (Laryngotracheobronchitis)
  • "Apple-core lesion" on a barium enema studyColorectal adenocarcinoma
  • "Bamboo spine" appearance on an anteroposterior lumbar radiographAnkylosing spondylitis

Answer

Thumbprint sign matches with Epiglottitis; Steeple sign matches with Croup; Apple-core lesion matches with Colorectal adenocarcinoma; and Bamboo spine matches with Ankylosing spondylitis.
Each classic imaging sign directly corresponds to a distinct anatomical alteration caused by its respective underlying pathophysiology. Correctly recognizing these patterns ensures rapid, accurate diagnosis in clinical practice.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the pediatric airway imaging signs.
The thumbprint sign denotes supraglottic swelling (epiglottitis), while the steeple sign denotes subglottic swelling (croup).
Differentiation of upper airway distress is rapidly aided by evaluating the specific anatomic location of edema on neck films.
2
Analyze the gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal imaging signs.
An apple-core lesion reflects circumferential luminal narrowing (colon cancer), and a bamboo spine reflects continuous syndesmophyte formation (ankylosing spondylitis).
These represent classic, high-yield radiologic appearances of structural disease progression that guide immediate diagnostic and therapeutic next steps.

Key Concept

Recognizing pathognomonic imaging signs for classic medical conditions
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Topics

Interpreting Imaging Results

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