40 Emphysematous pyelonephritis Fig. 40.1A This patient has abnormal air in the region of the left kidney. These are the appearances of emphysematous pyelonephritis. Background This is a rare but…

39 Emphysematous cystitis Fig. 39.1A This radiograph demonstrates air in the bladder wall. These appearances are consistent with emphysematous cystitis. (With acknowledgement to Dr Gill Markham for providing this radiograph.)…

33 Sigmoid volvulus Fig. 33.1A This radiograph demonstrates a large gas-filled loop of bowel, arising from the left iliac fossa and pointing to the liver. It has a central sulcus…

41 Chronic pancreatitis Fig. 41.1A There are punctate calcifications throughout the pancreas, due to chronic pancreatitis. Background Chronic pancreatitis is not an emergency per se, but the finding of pancreatic…

24 Pulmonary embolism Fig. 24.1A This radiograph demonstrates a very subtle area of oligaemia in the right upper zone, with a decreased vessel count. The subsequent CT pulmonary angiogram demonstrated…

31 Gallstone ileus Fig. 31.1A This patient has gallstone ileus. This is a rare cause of small bowel obstruction but should always be sought on plain films as this is…

34 Caecal volvulus Fig. 34.1 This patient has a gas-filled caecum pointing towards the left upper quadrant of the abdomen. This is a caecal volvulus. (With thanks to Dr Maruti…

25 Coarctation of the aorta Fig. 25.1A This radiograph demonstrates inferior rib notching bilaterally. The diagnosis is coarctation of the aorta. Background Coarctation of the aorta does not usually present…

23 Aortic dissection Fig. 23.1A This radiograph demonstrates widening of the mediastinum caused by a thoracic aortic dissection. Background This is an important condition with a high mortality rate. Untreated…

19 Pneumomediastinum Fig. 19.1A This patient has extensive pneumomediastinum. (With thanks to Dr Godfrey Chatora for providing this radiograph.) Background Pneumomediastinum refers to air in the mediastinal cavity. There are…