The radiographic appearance of the stomach in Cronkhite-Canada syndrome

Cronkhite-Canada syndrome is a nonfamilial form of diffuse gastrointestinal polyposis associated with ectodermal abnormalities of alopecia, and hyperpigmentation. Recent experience with two patients in whom the diagnosis was pathologically confirmed suggest that there is a specific radiographic appearance to the stomach in this disorder. There are enlarged rugal folds, polyps, and "whiskering" (appearance of multiple tiny projections due to barium trapped between nodular excrescences of rugae). When accompanied by the characteristic ectodermal abnormalities, this radiographic pattern aids in the diagnosis of this complex clinical entity.