‘String of beads’ appearance on abdominal X-ray is seen in
**String of Pearls Appearance**
==========================
**Core Concept**
---------------
The "string of beads" appearance on abdominal X-ray is a radiological finding associated with a specific condition. It is characterized by a series of small, rounded opacities that resemble a string of pearls. This appearance is typically seen in the context of a particular gastrointestinal pathology.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
--------------------------------
The correct answer is associated with a condition known as _situs inversus totalis_ or more commonly _Meckel's diverticulum_. A Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital anomaly of the small intestine, resulting from the incomplete closure of the vitelline duct. It is a true diverticulum, containing all layers of the intestinal wall. The "string of beads" appearance on abdominal X-ray is due to the presence of multiple small air-filled Meckel's diverticula, which appear as rounded opacities along the intestinal tract.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
--------------------------------------
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because the "string of beads" appearance is not typically associated with other gastrointestinal conditions, such as intestinal obstruction or appendicitis.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because the "string of beads" appearance is not a characteristic finding in other abdominal pathologies, such as liver or spleen disease.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
----------------------------------
A Meckel's diverticulum can be a source of gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly in children, due to the presence of ectopic gastric mucosa within the diverticulum.
**Correct Answer: D. Meckel's diverticulum.**