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CT of the duodenum: an overlooked segment gets its due
M V Jayaraman1, W W Mayo-Smith, J S Movson
1Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Brown University School of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy St, Providence, RI 02903, USA.
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) effectively diagnoses duodenal diseases, including congenital, traumatic, inflammatory, and neoplastic conditions. Careful CT technique ensures accurate diagnosis of these often overlooked gastrointestinal pathologies.
Area of Science:
- Gastrointestinal Radiology
- Abdominal Imaging
- Computed Tomography
Background:
- Gastrointestinal radiology literature predominantly focuses on the colon, stomach, and distal small bowel.
- Duodenal pathologies are less frequently discussed despite their clinical significance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe computed tomography (CT) findings of various duodenal pathologic conditions.
- To highlight the diagnostic utility of CT in evaluating the duodenum.
Main Methods:
- Review of CT findings related to congenital, traumatic, inflammatory, and neoplastic duodenal diseases.
- Emphasis on specific CT techniques for optimal duodenal visualization.
Main Results:
- CT is vital for diagnosing traumatic duodenal injury.
- CT reliably identifies inflammatory processes like ulcers and pancreatitis involvement.
- CT can diagnose duodenal malignancies (lipoma, adenoma, adenocarcinoma) and adjacent extensions.
- Congenital anomalies (duplications, diverticula) are often asymptomatic; annular pancreas and malrotation manifest early.
- Infectious duodenal diseases present nonspecific findings.
Conclusions:
- Computed tomography (CT) is a crucial tool for diagnosing a wide spectrum of duodenal diseases.
- Meticulous CT technique and focused attention on the duodenum enable accurate prospective diagnoses.