Computed tomography findings mimicking appendicitis as a manifestation of colorectal cancer☆
Received 20 December 2008; accepted 14 January 2009. published online 26 February 2009.
Abstract
The primary computed tomography (CT) signs of appendicitis can also be seen with other inflammatory or neoplastic processes. We report on two cases in which appendiceal dilatation and peri-appendiceal fluid or stranding were the dominant imaging manifestations of colorectal carcinoma in the ascending colon. This study highlights the need to closely examine the ascending colon in patients with a suspected CT diagnosis of acute appendicitis, since these findings may be secondary to an inconspicuous colorectal carcinoma.
Department of Radiology, University of California, 505 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143-0628, USA
Corresponding author. Department of Radiology, University of California, Box 0628, M-372, 505 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143-0628, USA. Tel.: +1 415 353 1786; fax: +1 415 476 0616.
☆ ZJW supported by NIBIB T32 Training Grant 1 T32 EB001631.