[Radiologic aspects of granulomatous colitis]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Background:

• Granulomatous colitis is a colonic manifestation of Crohn disease.
• While Crohn disease can affect any digestive organ, colonic involvement is second only to ileocecal disease.
• Radiology plays a crucial role in diagnosing colonic manifestations of Crohn disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the radiological findings in 53 cases of granulomatous colitis.
• To highlight the diagnostic importance of radiological signs in granulomatous colitis.
• To correlate radiological findings with disease presentation and complications.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of radiological examinations in 53 patients diagnosed with granulomatous colitis.
• Analysis of direct and indirect radiological signs of macroscopic alterations, disease progression, and complications.
• Classification of findings based on disease phase (precocious, non-stenotic).

Main Results:

• Out of 53 cases, 25 had concurrent ileal involvement.
• Three patients in the precocious phase showed irregular contours and inflammatory polyps, emphasizing mucosal pattern study.
• In the non-stenotic phase, 42 cases exhibited the typical cobblestone pattern, and 8 showed loosened mucosal relief and haustral patterns.
• Fistulization was observed in only two cases.

Conclusions:

• Radiological imaging is fundamental for diagnosing granulomatous colitis and its complications.
• Characteristic patterns such as cobblestone mucosa are indicative of Crohn disease in the colon.
• Early radiological signs, including mucosal irregularities, are important for diagnosis.