Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What imaging technique is preferred for checking Superior Vena Cava (SVC) syndrome?

1. CT with contrast

2. X-ray of the chest

3. Ultrasound of the neck

4. Plain CT scan

The correct answer is: CT with contrast

The preferred imaging technique for assessing Superior Vena Cava (SVC) syndrome is CT with contrast. This method provides detailed cross-sectional images of the thoracic structures, allowing for accurate visualization of the SVC and surrounding tissues. With contrast enhancement, the degree of obstruction can be assessed, and any underlying causes, such as tumors or thrombosis, can be identified more effectively. CT scans have the advantage of superior spatial resolution, enabling healthcare professionals to determine the size and extent of any mediastinal masses or vascular compression that may be contributing to SVC syndrome. Additionally, the use of contrast helps to delineate the vascular structures clearly, facilitating a better understanding of the problem. While other imaging techniques can be helpful, they have limitations. An X-ray of the chest can show indirect signs of SVC syndrome but lacks the specificity and detail necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Ultrasound of the neck is useful for assessing blood flow and may help identify thrombus in some cases but does not provide comprehensive visualization of the SVC or thoracic structures. A plain CT scan, without contrast, offers less information regarding vascular structures and may miss subtle abnormalities that could be crucial in diagnosing SVC syndrome. Thus, CT with contrast stands out as the most effective imaging