Related Experiment Videos
[Pseudomembranous colitis: clinical, endoscopic and radiological correlation--a 2-year experience]
F Benjaminov1, R Zissin, B Novis
1Gastroenterology Institute, Meir Hospital, Sapir Medical Center, Kfar-Saba, Israel.
Harefuah
|April 17, 2001
Summary
Pseudomembranous colitis (PMC) is increasing. Abdominal CT scans can suggest PMC in ill patients, prompting endoscopic evaluation for definitive diagnosis and management of this severe condition.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Context:
- Rising incidence of pseudomembranous colitis (PMC).
- PMC is a potentially life-threatening condition requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- This study reviews a 2-year experience with 43 PMC patients.
Purpose:
- To describe the clinical course and imaging findings of pseudomembranous colitis.
- To evaluate the role of abdominal imaging, particularly CT, in diagnosing PMC.
- To highlight the importance of endoscopic confirmation.
Summary:
- 43 patients (25 female, 18 male; mean age 67) diagnosed with PMC.
- Abdominal CT findings suggestive of PMC included colonic mural thickening (71% diffuse), pericolonic fat changes (59%), and ascites (51%).
- Endoscopic evaluation confirmed PMC in all but one patient; 11.6% mortality was observed.
Impact:
- Abdominal CT can raise suspicion for PMC in acutely ill patients.
- Suspected PMC on CT warrants further endoscopic investigation for accurate diagnosis.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial for improving outcomes in PMC.