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Inflammatory fibroid polyp of the colon simulating malignancy
Radiology
|October 1, 1983
Summary
An inflammatory fibroid polyp in the colon can mimic a tumor on barium enema exams. Histology confirms its inflammatory origin, highlighting diagnostic challenges in differentiating these rare lesions from colon cancer.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
- Radiology
Background:
- Inflammatory fibroid polyps (IFPs) are rare mesenchymal tumors.
- They can occur anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract, including the colon.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate patient management.
Observation:
- An IFP of the colon presented as a space-occupying lesion.
- The lesion simulated a colonic tumor on air-contrast barium-enema examination.
- Radiographic findings were concerning for malignancy.
Findings:
- Histological examination revealed the inflammatory nature of the polyp.
- The polyp was composed of inflammatory cells and fibrous tissue.
- Microscopic analysis confirmed the diagnosis of an inflammatory fibroid polyp.
Implications:
- IFPs can be radiographically indistinguishable from primary colon carcinoma.
- This case underscores the importance of integrating imaging findings with histopathology.
- Awareness of IFPs is essential for radiologists and pathologists to avoid misdiagnosis.