In the case of a 66-year-old with polyuria, weight loss, and normal blood tests except for elevated HbA1C, what is the most appropriate next investigation?

In this clinical scenario, a 66-year-old patient presents with polyuria, weight loss, and elevated HbA1C, which are indicative of possible diabetes mellitus. Given the age and symptoms, it is crucial to investigate further for potential underlying complications that could be related to a diagnosis of diabetes or other serious conditions, such as pancreatic abnormalities or malignancies.

Opting for a CT scan of the abdomen along with a 2-week referral is appropriate because it allows for a thorough assessment of any structural anomalies in the pancreas and surrounding organs. This approach is particularly pertinent in an older adult presenting with new-onset diabetes symptoms and significant changes such as weight loss. A CT scan can help rule out conditions like pancreatic tumors or other acute abdominal processes that might not have been apparent in the blood tests.

Other investigation options, such as an oral glucose tolerance test, would primarily be used to diagnose diabetes rather than addressing the immediate concerns brought about by the symptoms. A fasting lipid profile may provide useful information regarding cardiovascular risk but is not directly relevant to the acute assessment suggested by the patient’s presentation. Meanwhile, an exercise stress test is typically utilized for cardiac evaluation rather than for the context of elevated glucose levels or weight loss. Thus, the choice of a CT scan