Oxford Step-Up To Medicine Video Series 2016

Abdominal and pelvic masses manifest as swellings in specific areas of the abdomen and pelvis. They are often incidentally picked up on physical examination. Most causes of abdominal masses are benign, but some might indicate a serious underlying pathology.

This video will provide a comprehensive diagnostic approach to a patient with an abdominal/pelvic mass. Critical questions to ask in history, such as intercurrent symptoms of change in bowel habit or urinary difficulties, and important features on physical examination, such as reducible masses and midline pulsatile masses, will be reviewed. Laboratory and imaging investigations, while not absolutely necessary, can be ordered and the significance of findings on these will also be discussed. Lastly, you will learn about the management of some serious causes of abdominal masses, such as abdominal aortic aneurysm and hernias.