Teresa Cammarota MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Daniela Robotti MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Antonino Sarno MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Diagnosis and follow-up of Crohn disease (CD) often required invasive instrumental examination, with a high risk of iatrogenic damage.Ultrasound (US) examination of bowel walls could be the first choice in managing patients with CD . We evaluated the role of tissue color-power-doppler (CPD) and B-mode US with intravenous injection of contrast medium in the detection of the disease activity.

In our series, 70 patients with CD underwent US examination.Each study was completed with tissue CPD and US with intravenous injection of contrast medium ( Sono Vue) to evaluate intestinal wall vascularization as an index of disease activity. We then compared our results with those from clinical and laboratory tests and follow-up.

Data from US examination with intravenous injection of Sono Vue partly agreed with clinical and laboratory tests and CPD in disease activity evaluation but where is the most useful in the follow-up.

Bowel US examination associated with CPD and in particular US contrast medium injection can be used to detect CD activity and modulate therapy and follow-up. Our group has conducted research, joint with other groups and centre as part of a research network activity, an issues related to the variability of intra- and inter observer evaluation of contrast enhancement.

Cammarota, T, Robotti, D, Sarno, A, Activity of Crohn Disease: Value of Color Power Doppler and Contrast Enhancement Ultrasonography.  Radiological Society of North America 2004 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2004 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2004/4411160.html