Abdominal X-ray - Abnormal soft tissues and bones
Introduction

Tutorial key points

  • Bone and soft tissue disease are encountered incidentally on abdominal X-rays
  • Awareness of the abnormalities you may encounter helps avoid confusion
  • Ultrasound or dedicated X-rays are required for initial investigation of suspected abdominal soft tissues or bone disease

Related tutorials

The bones and soft tissues of the abdomen are primarily imaged by means other than the abdominal X-ray. Ultrasound is usually the initial investigation for suspected soft tissue abnormalities of the abdomen. Dedicated X-rays are usually required to investigate suspected bone and joint disease.

Occasionally you will come across an unexpected abnormality of bone or soft tissue on an abdominal X-ray. This tutorial briefly discusses a range of these abnormalities.

Before starting you may find it helpful to read the tutorial on Abdominal X-ray - System and anatomy.

Your course assessment certificate

A certificated course completion assessment is available which is based on the material in this tutorial and the related sections.

All the certificated online course completion assessments provided by Radiology Masterclass award CPD/CME credits in accordance with the CPD Scheme of the Royal College of Radiologists, London, UK.

Page author: Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust UK (Read bio)

Last reviewed: October 2019