sectional anatomy quiz - vi

This quiz is part of a series which aims to aid nuclear physicians in interpreting the computed tomography (ct) component of the single photon emission computed tomography (spect) and positron emission tomography (pet) studies. the current quiz includes normal and pathological axial ct images at the level of the superior mesenteric artery (sma) and superior mesenteric vein (smv). the smv is normally located to the right of the sma and is of a larger caliber. various pathologies such as malignancy, infection or vascular disease can alter the position and/or appearance of the sma, smv and the surrounding anatomical structures present at this level. understanding how normal anatomy is altered by pathology at this level will facilitate improved interpretation of abdominal ct images.