Investigation of Choice — Common Conditions

A 58-year-old man with a history of chronic cough and smoking (40 pack-years) presents with hemoptysis and dyspnea for 2 weeks. Chest X-ray shows a 3 cm right hilar opacity with associated atelectasis. Sputum cytology is pending. What is the most appropriate next imaging investigation to stage the disease and guide treatment planning?

A 35-year-old woman presents with acute-onset severe headache, neck stiffness, and fever. Clinical suspicion for meningitis is high. Which neuroimaging modality is the most commonly used investigation of choice to rule out contraindications to lumbar puncture before performing CSF analysis?

A 38-year-old woman with a 6-month history of progressive left knee pain and swelling presents to the orthopedic clinic. Physical examination reveals joint effusion and restricted range of motion. Which is the most common imaging modality used as the first-line investigation to evaluate internal derangement and soft tissue pathology of the knee joint?

A 32-year-old woman presents with acute right upper quadrant pain and fever. Ultrasound shows gallstones with a thickened gallbladder wall. All of the following are appropriate next imaging modalities EXCEPT:

A 38-year-old woman presents with sudden-onset severe headache, neck stiffness, and fever. On examination, she is photophobic and has a positive Kernig sign. You suspect acute bacterial meningitis. What is the most appropriate next step in management?