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Cholecystocolonic fistula: serial CT imaging features.
Ajay K Singh1, Debra Gervais, Peter Mueller
1Division of Abdominal Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA. Pallaviajay@hotmail.com
Emergency Radiology
|July 28, 2004
Summary
We present a rare case of gallbladder-colon fistula diagnosed with CT imaging. This unusual connection between the gallbladder and colon caused melena, a serious gastrointestinal bleeding symptom.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Cholecystocolonic fistula is an uncommon complication of gallbladder disease.
- Symptoms can be nonspecific, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A patient presented to the emergency department with melena, a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Computed tomography (CT) imaging was utilized for diagnostic evaluation.
Findings:
- CT revealed an unusual fistulous tract directly connecting the gallbladder and the colon.
- Serial imaging demonstrated the progression and diagnostic features of the cholecystocolonic fistula.
Implications:
- Accurate CT imaging is crucial for diagnosing rare gastrointestinal anomalies like cholecystocolonic fistulas.
- Early diagnosis and management are essential for patients presenting with melena and suspected biliary-colonic communication.