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Published on: July 21, 2023
CT findings in duodenal diverticulitis
Monica S Pearl1, Michael C Hill, Robert K Zeman
1Department of Radiology, George Washington University Medical Center, 900 23rd St., NW, 1st Floor Radiology, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
Duodenal diverticulitis is a rare condition that can be challenging to diagnose using CT scans. Utilizing nonaxial imaging, such as coronal views, can aid in confirming the diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
Background:
- Duodenal diverticulitis is an uncommon complication of duodenal diverticulosis.
- It often presents with non-specific symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis.
- CT findings can mimic other intra-abdominal pathologies.
Observation:
- Two cases of duodenal diverticulitis are presented.
- Initial presentations included abdominal pain, nausea, and leukocytosis.
- One patient was initially misdiagnosed with acute pancreatitis.
Findings:
- A correct diagnosis was delayed in one case, requiring a follow-up CT with oral and IV contrast.
- Coronal reformatted images were crucial in confirming the diagnosis in the second case.
Implications:
- Duodenal diverticulitis poses a diagnostic challenge on CT.
- Consideration in the differential diagnosis of duodenal and pancreatic inflammatory conditions is essential.
- Nonaxial imaging, particularly coronal views, improves diagnostic accuracy.
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