Sudden Severe Epigastric Pain in Surgery — 24yo Man | General Surgery | SMLE Q#1301
SMLE Question #1301
Surgery
General Surgery
Objective: OBJ-TRACH-EMERG-01
Last updated: February 2026
A 24-year-old man presents to the emergency department with sudden severe epigastric pain for 6 hours that is progressively worsening. He lies still and appears uncomfortable. Examination shows diffuse abdominal tenderness with mild guarding and decreased bowel sounds. Initial blood tests show leukocytosis and elevated serum amylase. What is the best initial diagnostic step?
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