In a renal sonogram, which abnormality may be indicated by a history of flank pain?

In the context of a renal sonogram, flank pain can be associated with several abnormalities. The correct option, indicating a hematoma, aligns with the understanding that hematomas can occur as a result of trauma or certain medical conditions, leading to localized bleeding in the kidney area. This can manifest clinically as flank pain, especially if the hematoma is significant enough to cause pressure or irritation to surrounding structures.

A renal hematoma is typically seen as an area of echogenicity on an ultrasound, which may vary in appearance depending on the age of the hematoma. Identifying this abnormality through sonography is crucial, as it can inform the clinical management needed for the patient, such as monitoring or potential intervention.

The other options, while potentially linked to flank pain, do not have the same direct association in this scenario. For instance, juvenile polycystic kidney disease usually leads to chronic issues rather than acute flank pain. A renal abscess could present with flank pain but is often accompanied by other systemic signs such as fever and increased white blood cell count. Urinary obstruction could also result in flank pain but is more commonly characterized by hydronephrosis visible on ultrasound rather than a hematoma's localized effects. Thus, when considering the specific history