[Colon endometriosis: radiological diagnosis (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Gynecology

Background:

• Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus.
• Colon involvement is a common manifestation of deep infiltrating endometriosis.
• Accurate radiological diagnosis is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the radiological signs of the three anatomical types of colon endometriosis.
• To differentiate between various presentations of endometriosis affecting the colon.
• To aid in the diagnostic workup of suspected colon endometriosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of radiological findings in patients with confirmed colon endometriosis.
• Description of characteristic imaging features for each anatomical type.
• Correlation of radiological signs with surgical and pathological findings.

Main Results:

• Marginal type: isolated lesions, well-defined edges, potential "roman tiles" appearance due to adhesions.
• Circumferential type: fixed narrowing, "wheel rim" sign from mesocolon retraction.
• Diffuse pelvic forms: primary colon lesion with pelvic spread, requiring coelioscopy for investigation.

Conclusions:

• Radiological imaging effectively characterizes the three main anatomical types of colon endometriosis.
• Specific signs like "roman tiles" and "wheel rim" aid in diagnosis.
• Distinguishing these types is important for surgical planning and managing pelvic spread.