Radiological features of scleroderma are A/E:
## Core Concept
Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by thickening and hardening of the skin and involvement of internal organs. Radiological features of scleroderma include changes in the lungs, esophagus, and skin. The question seems to be asking for an exception (A/E) among the provided radiological features.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
The correct answer, ., implies that one of the listed radiological features is not typically associated with scleroderma. Common radiological features of scleroderma include:
- **Pulmonary fibrosis** and **pneumonitis**, which can lead to honeycombing and ground-glass opacities on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans.
- **Esophageal dilation** and **esophageal dysmotility** due to fibrosis in the esophageal wall, visible on barium swallow studies.
- **Skin thickening** and **calcifications** in soft tissues.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** If a feature like pulmonary fibrosis is listed, it is a known complication of scleroderma, making it incorrect as an exception.
- **Option B:** If esophageal dilation is listed, it is also a recognized feature, thus incorrect as an exception.
- **Option C:** Similarly, if skin thickening is mentioned, it's a hallmark of scleroderma, making it an incorrect exception.
- **Option D:** This would be the correct exception if it represents a feature not commonly associated with scleroderma.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key radiological feature to remember in scleroderma is **esophageal involvement**, often showing as a dilated esophagus with a "bird beak" appearance on barium studies, indicative of lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction.
## Correct Answer: D.