Sonographic features of acute colonic diverticulitis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Acute colonic diverticulitis is a frequent cause of acute abdominal symptoms, particularly in the elderly population.
• Sonography is a readily available and commonly employed initial imaging modality for evaluating these symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of the sonographic features characteristic of acute colonic diverticulitis.
• To illustrate the sonographic appearances of common differential diagnoses that mimic acute colonic diverticulitis.

Main Methods:

• This work is a pictorial essay, focusing on visual representation of imaging findings.
• It involves reviewing and presenting characteristic sonographic images of acute colonic diverticulitis.
• It also includes images of conditions that present with similar clinical symptoms and may be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Main Results:

• The essay details specific sonographic findings associated with acute colonic diverticulitis, such as bowel wall thickening, pericolic fat stranding, and abscess formation.
• It visually demonstrates the sonographic appearances of alternative diagnoses, including appendicitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and bowel obstruction.
• Key differentiating features between diverticulitis and its mimics on ultrasound are highlighted.

Conclusions:

• Sonography is a valuable tool for the initial assessment of acute abdominal symptoms, especially in suspected acute colonic diverticulitis.
• Familiarity with the sonographic features of diverticulitis and its differential diagnoses is crucial for accurate and timely diagnosis.
• This pictorial essay serves as a visual guide for clinicians interpreting ultrasound examinations in patients with acute abdominal complaints.