Rectosigmoid pseudostenosis due to urinary retention.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Urology
• Radiology

Background:

• Pseudostenosis of the rectosigmoid colon is a potential diagnostic issue.
• It arises from external compression by a distended urinary bladder.
• This condition is likely common but has been minimally documented in radiological literature.

Observation:

• The study presents four distinct cases illustrating this phenomenon.
• Radiological features were specifically examined using barium enema examinations.
• The focus is on the diagnostic challenges and imaging characteristics.

Findings:

• Compression by a dilated urinary bladder can mimic true rectosigmoid stenosis.
• Barium enema reveals characteristic extrinsic compression patterns.
• Accurate diagnosis relies on recognizing the extrinsic nature of the narrowing.

Implications:

• Increased awareness among radiologists is crucial for correct diagnosis.
• Distinguishing pseudostenosis from true stenosis prevents unnecessary interventions.
• Understanding this urological-gastrointestinal interaction enhances diagnostic accuracy.