Differential Diagnosis for Wall Thickening of Cecum and Ascending Colon
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Crohn's Disease: This is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, but it often involves the terminal ileum and the beginning of the colon, including the cecum and ascending colon. Wall thickening in these areas is a common finding in Crohn's disease due to chronic inflammation.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ulcerative Colitis: Although ulcerative colitis typically starts in the rectum and extends proximally in a continuous manner, it can sometimes present with right-sided colon involvement, including the cecum and ascending colon, leading to wall thickening.
- Infectious Colitis: Certain infections, such as those caused by Salmonella, Shigella, or Campylobacter, can lead to inflammation and wall thickening of the cecum and ascending colon.
- Ischemic Colitis: Reduced blood flow to the colon can cause ischemia, leading to wall thickening, particularly in the areas supplied by the ileocolic and right colic arteries, which include the cecum and ascending colon.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Colon Cancer: Although less common as a cause of diffuse wall thickening, colon cancer, especially if it is a linitis plastica type (which is less common), can cause significant wall thickening and should not be missed due to its severe implications.
- Pseudomembranous Colitis: Caused by Clostridioides difficile infection, this condition can lead to severe inflammation and wall thickening, particularly in the setting of antibiotic use.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Eosinophilic Colitis: A rare condition characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the colon wall, which can cause wall thickening.
- Lymphoma: Primary or secondary involvement of the colon by lymphoma can lead to wall thickening, although this is less common.
- Amyloidosis: Systemic amyloidosis can involve the gastrointestinal tract, including the colon, leading to wall thickening due to amyloid deposition.