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Published on: March 5, 2018
Colonic Pseudo-obstruction as a Rare Complication of Pheochromocytoma
Kin Wai So1, Hoi Ling Tsui1, Kim Hung Tsang1
1Department of Radiology and Organ Imaging, United Christian Hospital, Hong Kong.
Abstract:
Colonic pseudo-obstruction is characterized by dilatation of the colon without a structural lesion causing the obstruction. It usually involves the caecum and right side of the colon and is commonly observed in patients with severe illness or after surgery; it is rarely caused by pheochromocytoma. The diagnosis of colonic pseudo-obstruction can be established by abdominal imaging including computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen or use of a water-soluble contrast enema. In additional to conservative or surgical treatment, alpha-blockers can be used in this setting to relieve the pseudo-obstruction.
Learning Points:
Colonic pseudo-obstruction is a rare manifestation of pheochromocytoma.A typical radiological feature of colonic pseudo-obstruction is the presence of a gradual transition at the splenic flexure of the colon.Alpha-blockers can be used in this setting to relieve pseudo-obstruction.
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