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Gastrointestinal hemangiomatosis in children: demonstration with CT
E R Bank1, R J Hernandez, W J Byrne
1Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Hospitals, Ann Arbor.
Insights
Gastrointestinal tract hemangiomatosis can cause lower GI bleeding in children. Computed tomography reveals characteristic vascular enhancement, aiding diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Vascular Malformations
Background:
- Gastrointestinal (GI) tract hemangiomatosis is a rare condition.
- Lower GI bleeding can be a presenting symptom in pediatric patients.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management.
Observation:
- Computed tomography (CT) demonstrated hemangiomatosis in the GI tracts of two children with lower GI bleeding.
- Patients presented with significant lower GI bleeding.
- Imaging was performed using rapid intravenous contrast administration and dynamic scanning.
Findings:
- CT showed marked vascular enhancement of the bowel, characteristic of hemangiomas.
- Barium examinations revealed submucosal lesions within the bowel wall.
- Imaging techniques helped approximate the extent of bowel involvement.
Implications:
- CT is a valuable tool for diagnosing GI tract hemangiomatosis.
- Understanding imaging characteristics aids in differentiating this condition from other causes of GI bleeding.
- Early and accurate diagnosis can guide treatment strategies for pediatric patients.
Abstract:
The presence of gastrointestinal (GI) tract hemangiomatosis was demonstrated by computed tomography in two children who presented with lower GI tract bleeding. Marked vascular enhancement of the bowel during rapid intravenous administration of contrast material and dynamic scanning is characteristic, similar to that seen with hemangiomas elsewhere in the body. Barium examinations demonstrate submucosal lesions within the bowel and are useful to approximate the length of bowel involvement.