A "double bubble" on an abdominal radiograph in an infant is characteristic of:
A. Duodenal atresiaWhenever the diagnosis of duodenal obstruction is entertained, malrotation and midgut volvulus must be excluded. Other causes of duodenal obstruction include duodenal atresia, duodenal web, stenosis, annular pancreas, or duodenal duplication cyst. The classic finding on abdominal radiography is the "double bubble" sign, which represents the dilated stomach and duodenum (Fig. below). In association with the appropriate clinical picture, this finding is sufficient to confirm the diagnosis of duodenal obstruction.
Abdominal X-ray showi ng "double bubble" sign in a newborn infant with duodenal atresia. The two "bubbles" are numbered.