Question

A 41-year-old woman with chronic low back pain but new red flags of unintentional weight loss and night pain presents in primary care. What is the most appropriate imaging strategy?

Accepted Answer

Order lumbar spine MRI to assess for serious pathology

Answer

No imaging; reassure and treat conservatively

Answer

Order lumbar spine CT only

Answer

Order routine lumbar radiographs only

Answer

Defer imaging for 6 months to see if symptoms resolve

Practice question

A 41-year-old woman with chronic low back pain but new red flags of unintentional weight loss and night pain presents in primary care. What is the most appropriate imaging strategy?