Decoding Abdominal X-Ray Signs

Learn how to read abdominal x rays

Rigler Sign 

Description: Gas outlining both sides of the bowel wall. Diagnosis: Pneumoperitoneum.

Thumbprinting Sign

Description: Large bowel wall thickening. Diagnosis: IBD, Colitis, Diverticulitis, or Typhlitis.

Coffee Bean Sign

Description: Closed-loop of the sigmoid distends. Diagnosis: Sigmoid Volvulus.

Double Bubble Sign

Description: Dilatation of the stomach and duodenum. Diagnosis: Duodenal Atresia.

Apple Core Sign

Description: Annular constriction of the bowel. Diagnosis: Colorectal Carcinoma.

Lead Pipe Sign

Description: Loss of haustral marking in the colon. Diagnosis: Ulcerative Colitis.

Crescent Sign

Description: Free air under the diaphragms. Diagnosis: Pneumoperitoneum.

Staghorn Sign

Description: Renal calculi in a staghorn shape within the renal pelvis and calyces. Diagnosis: Staghorn Calculi.

String of Pearls Sign

Description: Row of small gas bubbles trapped between valvulae conniventes. Diagnosis: Small Bowel Obstruction.

Colon Cut Off Sign

Description: Proximal colon distension with abrupt termination at the splenic flexure. Diagnosis: Acute Pancreatitis.