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Caecal faecolith: ultrasonic--radiologic diagnosis
1Radiology Department, Middlemore Hospital, Otahuhu, Auckland, New Zealand.
Australasian Radiology
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Caecal faecoliths, hard masses in the right iliac fossa, are often missed by radiologists. Imaging like ultrasound and barium enema can help diagnose these masses, typically seen in older women with constipation.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Caecal faecoliths are impacted feces in the cecum, often presenting as a palpable mass.
- This condition is not widely recognized among radiologists.
- It commonly affects older women experiencing chronic constipation.
Observation:
- Caecal faecoliths manifest as a hard, tender, palpable mass in the right iliac fossa.
- Ultrasound reveals an intracaecal, highly echogenic mass with acoustic shadowing.
- Plain radiographs may exhibit lamellated calcifications, while barium enema shows a well-defined intracaecal mass.
Findings:
- The characteristic imaging findings across ultrasound, plain radiography, and barium enema aid in identifying caecal faecoliths.
- A combination of imaging modalities improves diagnostic accuracy.
- Preoperative diagnosis is achievable with appropriate imaging techniques.
Implications:
- Increased radiologist awareness of caecal faecoliths is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Timely diagnosis can prevent complications associated with impacted feces.
- Multimodal imaging approaches enhance the detection of this uncommon condition.