Pseudomembranous colitis: CT evaluation of 26 cases.

• DOI: 10.1148/radiology.180.1.2052723
• Publication Date: 2014-07-08T20:54:00Z
• Authors: E K Fishman; M Kavuru; B Jones; J E Kuhlman; D S Merine; K D Lillimoe; S S Siegelman
• Keywords: Pseudomembranous colitis

Pseudomembranous colitis (PMC) is an infectious usually occurring as a complication of antibiotic use. The computed tomographic (CT) appearances 26 patients with PMC were reviewed. Twenty-three demonstrated abnormal bowel wall, average wall thickness 14.7 mm (range, 3-32 mm); in three patients, was normal. Contrast material trapped between thickened folds corresponded to the broad transverse bands described on plain radiographs. Pancolonic involvement seen 13 cases, while seven had right-sided only; thickening limited rectosigmoid only. Although CT appearance not highly specific, diagnosis may be suggested proper clinical setting.