CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What pathology seen during a GI is associated with cirrhosis of the liver?

1. Hepatocellular carcinoma

2. Esophageal varices

3. Pancreatitis

4. Cholecystitis

The correct answer is: Esophageal varices

Esophageal varices are dilated veins in the esophagus that occur as a result of increased pressure in the portal vein, a condition often caused by cirrhosis of the liver. When the liver becomes cirrhotic, it leads to a blockage in the normal blood flow, prompting the development of collateral circulation to bypass the obstruction. These collateral vessels, including those in the esophagus, can become engorged, leading to varices. If these varices rupture, it can result in severe gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a significant complication associated with cirrhosis. Other conditions listed, such as hepatocellular carcinoma, pancreatitis, and cholecystitis, do not specifically stem from the development of portal hypertension linked to cirrhosis in the same direct way. Hepatocellular carcinoma may develop in patients with cirrhosis as a separate and distinct complication, but it is not a direct consequence of the cirrhotic changes affecting the portal system. Pancreatitis primarily involves the pancreas and is unrelated to liver pathology in this context. Cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder and, while it may occur in liver disease patients, it does not have the same direct association with cirr