Learning objectives
To define,
through clinical cases recorded in our hospital,
the keys to establishing a correct differential diagnosis of the inflammatory processes of the colon (colitis).
To describe the most meaningful radiological findings in abdominal CT scans,
especially those that will be helpful in making an etiological diagnosis.
Background
Colitis is a very frequent clinical entity,
especially within the hospital setting.
It is becoming increasingly usual that the first diagnostic test run on these patients is an abdominal CT scan,
due to the fact that it is a non-invasive test with great accessibility that,
additionally,
allows ruling out other complications.
It is therefore very important that,
in addition to identifying this pathology,
we get as close as we can to an etiological diagnosis.
When dealing with a CT scan for suspected colitis,
the most...
Imaging findings OR Procedure details
Ischemic Colitis:
Ischemic colitis results when blood flow to the colon is compromised.
Clinical situation associated with nonocclusive ischemic colitis include hemorragic or septic shock,
heart failure with low cardiac out put and use of pressor drugs such as digitalis.
Colonis ischemia can also result from occlusion of the mesenteric vasculatura by a thrombus,
embolus,
or invasive tumor.
Both arterial and venous occlusion can result in colonic ischemia.
Another variety is stercoral colitis.
In this case,
ischemia is mainly localized in the rectum due to...
Conclusion
Colitis is a pathology that is increasingly diagnosed through CT scan tests.
An adequate knowledge of its radiological manifestations is,
therefore,
an essential tool in making a correct differential diagnosis that can guide us in its treatment planning.
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