Tumor of the ileocecal region: differentiation from Crohn's disease

Three cases of ileocecal tumor are presented with radiological criteria that distinguish this entity from regional enteritis. All three cases demonstrated two important radiological features of tumor: amputation of mucosal folds on the medial aspect of the cecum and an abrupt demarcation between the stenotic tumor-involved terminal ileum and normal ileum. Three additional radiological features that characterize tumor and are inconsistent with regional enteritis were also noted: tethering and pleating of ileal folds; sharp angulation of the involved ileum; and a lobulated squared appearance of the ileocecal valve. It is essential that careful radiological studies of the cecum and ileum be performed in order to make these important distinctions.