On an axial CT of the abdomen at the level of the first lumbar vertebra, which structure lies immediately anterior to the aorta?
- A Body of the pancreas ✓
- B Third part of duodenum
- C Left renal vein
- D Superior mesenteric artery
Correct answer: A. Body of the pancreas
Explanation
At the L1 level on axial CT, the body of the pancreas crosses anterior to the aorta. The coeliac trunk arises at T12–L1, and the superior mesenteric artery arises at L1 but lies anterior to the pancreas. The left renal vein passes between the SMA and aorta (the nutcracker angle) slightly lower. The third part of the duodenum crosses anterior to the aorta at L3.
Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.