Related Experiment Videos
Computed tomography of intramural intestinal hemorrhage and bowel ischemia
Insights
Computed tomography (CT) reveals characteristic findings for intramural intestinal hemorrhage, aiding diagnosis. Differentiating benign hemorrhage from bowel ischemia requires clinical history and evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Imaging
Background:
- Intramural intestinal hemorrhage can present with varied etiologies.
- Accurate differentiation from bowel ischemia is critical for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and illustrate the computed tomography (CT) findings in patients with intramural intestinal hemorrhage.
- To evaluate the utility of CT in differentiating intramural hemorrhage from ischemic bowel disease.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of CT findings in eight patients diagnosed with intramural intestinal hemorrhage.
- Correlation of imaging findings with clinical history and diagnosis.
Main Results:
- CT demonstrated circumferential, symmetrical bowel wall thickening with homogeneous density and a narrowed lumen.
- Segmental distribution was observed, with associated mesenteric edema/congestion in six patients and intraperitoneal blood in two.
- Two patients with ischemic bowel disease showed similar CT findings.
Conclusions:
- CT findings of intramural intestinal hemorrhage are distinctive, including wall thickening and luminal narrowing.
- Clinical history and careful evaluation are essential to differentiate benign intramural hemorrhage from potentially life-threatening bowel ischemia.
Abstract:
The CT findings of eight patients with intramural intestinal hemorrhage are described and illustrated. Two patients had ischemic bowel disease: in the other six cases pertinent clinical histories led to an accurate diagnosis. Computed tomography demonstrated similar findings consisting of circumferential and symmetrical wall thickening homogeneous in density, a slightly narrowed intestinal lumen, and sharp outer contour. The disease had a segmental distribution affecting different parts of the intestinal tract. In six patients edematous and congestive mesenteric changes were seen and in two patients intraperitoneal blood was detected. An adequate history and careful clinical evaluation are crucial in differentiating the more benign forms of intramural hemorrhage from bowel ischemia.