What condition is characterized by air and fluid levels seen on imaging?

The condition characterized by air and fluid levels seen on imaging is small bowel obstruction. In a small bowel obstruction, the normal flow of intestinal contents is hindered, which leads to the accumulation of fluid and gas proximal to the site of obstruction. On imaging studies, such as an abdominal X-ray or CT scan, this results in visible air-fluid levels within the dilated bowel loops.

The presence of these levels indicates that there is a disruption in the normal function of the intestine, highlighting the mechanical nature of the obstruction. Air-fluid levels are a key sign that helps differentiate small bowel obstruction from other conditions, such as pneumonia, pancreatitis, or appendicitis, which do not typically present with this specific finding on imaging.