Final answer:
The double bubble sign on an abdominal X-ray indicates intestinal obstruction, most commonly due to duodenal atresia, a condition that requires surgical intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
The double bubble sign on an abdominal X-ray is a radiographic finding that generally indicates a type of intestinal obstruction, specifically due to duodenal atresia, where there is a congenital absence or complete closure of a portion of the lumen of the duodenum. This appearance is characterized by two gas-filled structures seen on the X-ray, which represent the stomach and the proximal duodenum, with no gas distally, suggesting that the contents of the stomach are not passing beyond a certain point.
It is most often seen in newborns and is considered a surgical emergency. The double bubble occurs because of the accumulation of gas in the stomach and the beginning of the duodenum, with no air beyond that point, indicating the blockage. Other potential causes can include midgut volvulus or annular pancreas, but duodenal atresia is the most common cause when a classic double bubble sign is present.