Question:easy
For detecting pericardial calcification, which is the best investigation?
For detecting pericardial calcification, which is the best investigation?
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Calcium loves X-rays - CT is the best test for pericardial calcification.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
- MRI
- Transesophageal echocardiography
- USG
- CT scan
Show Solution
The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: The target here is calcium in the pericardium. The ideal test is the one that makes calcium stand out most clearly, and that depends on how each modality handles dense mineral.
Step 2: CT relies on X-ray attenuation, and calcium is among the densest tissues, so it appears bright and sharply defined. With its high spatial resolution, CT readily maps even thin rims of pericardial calcification.
Step 3: Such calcification is a strong pointer to constrictive pericarditis when the clinical picture fits. MRI, by contrast, renders calcium as a dark signal void and is better suited to thickness and tissue characterisation, while echo and ultrasound are constrained by limited windows and shadowing.
Step 4: Weighing the options, CT clearly outperforms MRI, transesophageal echo and USG for showing calcium.
\[\boxed{\text{CT scan}}\]
Step 2: CT relies on X-ray attenuation, and calcium is among the densest tissues, so it appears bright and sharply defined. With its high spatial resolution, CT readily maps even thin rims of pericardial calcification.
Step 3: Such calcification is a strong pointer to constrictive pericarditis when the clinical picture fits. MRI, by contrast, renders calcium as a dark signal void and is better suited to thickness and tissue characterisation, while echo and ultrasound are constrained by limited windows and shadowing.
Step 4: Weighing the options, CT clearly outperforms MRI, transesophageal echo and USG for showing calcium.
\[\boxed{\text{CT scan}}\]
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