Multidetector CT imaging in mesenteric ischemia--pearls and pitfalls

Emerg Radiol. 2011 Apr;18(2):145-56. doi: 10.1007/s10140-010-0921-8. Epub 2010 Dec 4.

Abstract

Mesenteric ischemia is a complex and devastating disease which still remains a diagnostic challenge to the clinicians due to non-specific clinical and laboratory findings. Several imaging features have been described with multidetector computed tomography which allows the diagnosis of mesenteric ischemia with high sensitivity and specificity. However, there are imaging features which overlap with other pathologies including benign inflammation and infection. Knowledge of imaging findings in mesenteric ischemia and its potential mimics is important in early and definitive diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diagnostic Errors
  • Humans
  • Ischemia / diagnosis*
  • Ischemia / diagnostic imaging
  • Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion / diagnosis*
  • Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion / diagnostic imaging
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*