Apple core sign in barium enema is seen with?
**Core Concept**
The "apple core sign" is a radiological term used to describe a characteristic appearance on barium enema, which is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to visualize the colon. This sign is associated with a stricture or a narrowing of the colon, which causes the barium to accumulate in a "core" shape, resembling an apple.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The apple core sign is typically seen in cases of colorectal cancer, where a tumor or a polyp causes a stricture in the colon. The stricture leads to a narrowing of the lumen, which in turn causes the barium to accumulate in a characteristic "apple core" shape. This is due to the irregular growth of the tumor, which causes the mucosa to become irregular and the lumen to become narrowed.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the "string sign" is a different radiological sign, which is seen in cases of intestinal obstruction, where the barium flows through a narrow segment of the intestine, creating a string-like appearance.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the "coiled spring sign" is seen in cases of diverticulitis, where the barium flows through a diverticulum, creating a coiled spring-like appearance.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the "double contrast enema" is a technique used to visualize the colon, but it is not associated with the apple core sign.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The apple core sign is a classic radiological sign of colorectal cancer, and it is essential to recognize this sign to diagnose the condition early. It is also essential to remember that other conditions, such as diverticulitis and intestinal obstruction, can also cause changes in the colon, which may mimic the apple core sign.
**Correct Answer:** C. Colorectal cancer.