Presentation
Passenger in car accident with blunt bowel trauma.
Patient Data
Age: 14
Gender: Male
From the case:
Hyperdense adrenal gland sign in pediatric hypovolemic shock
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Intense bilateral adrenal gland enhancement.
Multiple internal injuries, including extensive liver laceration and hemoperitoneum.
Case Discussion
Bilateral adrenal gland hyperenhancement has been described in pediatric hemorrhagic shock, pancreatitis, sepsis and trauma.
The pathophysiology of this CT finding is discussed to be part of the CT hypoperfusion complex.
When identified, adrenal hyperenhancement may bode a poor outcome and is a strong indicator of severe hypovolemic shock.