Giant colonic diverticulum: radiographic and MDCT characteristics

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Giant colonic diverticulum (GCD) is a rare entity, defined as a diverticulum larger than 4 cm.
• It is typically a manifestation of colonic diverticular disease, often presenting with non-specific symptoms.
• Diagnosis relies heavily on imaging due to its rarity and variable presentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the characteristic imaging findings of GCD.
• To discuss potential complications associated with GCD.
• To highlight radiographic mimics of GCD.

Main Methods:

• Review of radiographic and CT features of GCD.
• Analysis of diagnostic imaging modalities.
• Discussion of treatment strategies.

Main Results:

• Abdominal pain is the most common symptom, affecting approximately 70% of patients.
• Diagnosis is primarily based on imaging findings from plain abdominal radiographs and multi-detector CT (MDCT).
• GCD requires en bloc resection of the diverticulum and adjacent colon for treatment.

Conclusions:

• Imaging is crucial for diagnosing GCD, a rare complication of diverticulosis.
• Understanding GCD's imaging spectrum is vital for accurate diagnosis and complication prevention.
• Surgical resection is the standard treatment for GCD.