Colorectal laterally spreading tumors by computed tomographic colonography

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Oncology

Background:

• Colorectal laterally spreading tumors (LSTs) are increasingly recognized.
• Few studies have focused on LST detection using computed tomographic colonography (CTC).
• Colonoscopy is the current standard for LST detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the detection rate of LSTs by CTC compared to colonoscopy.
• To analyze the visibility of different LST subtypes and sizes on CTC.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 157 patients with 161 LSTs.
• Comparison of endoscopic and CTC reports.
• Multidetector CT scan with contrast media performed immediately after colonoscopy.

Main Results:

• CTC observed 86% of all LSTs detected by colonoscopy.
• Detection rates for granular LSTs (LST-Gs) were higher (97%) than for non-granular LSTs (LST-NGs) (71%).
• CTC detection rates increased with tumor size, from 73% for 20-29 mm to 97% for ≥60 mm.

Conclusions:

• CTC is a valuable tool for detecting colorectal LSTs, particularly larger and granular types.
• CTC shows promising results for LST detection, complementing colonoscopy.
• Further research may optimize CTC protocols for improved LST visualization.