PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which abdominal mass shape is associated with pyloric stenosis?

1. Pear-shaped mass

2. Olive-shaped mass

3. Round mass

4. Spindle-shaped mass

The correct answer is: Olive-shaped mass

The olive-shaped mass is specifically associated with pyloric stenosis, a condition that typically occurs in infants. In this condition, the pylorus, which is the opening from the stomach into the small intestine, becomes hypertrophied or thickened, leading to gastric outlet obstruction. This results in a palpable mass in the abdomen that is often described as resembling an olive due to its round, firm, and elongated characteristics. In cases of pyloric stenosis, this olive-shaped mass is typically located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen and can often be felt during clinical examination. The presence of this mass, along with symptoms such as projectile vomiting and dehydration, is highly indicative of the condition. The other shapes mentioned do not correlate with pyloric stenosis. The pear-shaped, round, and spindle-shaped masses are typically seen in different abdominal pathologies and do not present with the characteristic features observed in pyloric stenosis. Thus, the olive-shaped mass is a key clinical finding in the diagnosis of this condition.