| Theme |
Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB) |
| Title |
Usefulness of computed tomography for the evaluation of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding |
| Author |
Shinichi Hashimoto |
Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine |
| Author |
Masahiro Tanabe |
Department of Radiology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine |
| Author |
Kensaku Shimizu |
Kouno Clinic |
| Author |
Madoka Unno |
Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine |
| Author |
Takeshi Okamoto |
Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine |
| Author |
Jun Nishikawa |
Department of Laboratory Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine |
| Author |
Katsuyoshi Ito |
Department of Radiology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine |
| Author |
Isao Sakaida |
Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] |
Computed tomography (CT) is considered the first-line investigation in patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB) because it can be performed during emergencies and provides comprehensive information. If possible, dynamic CT should be performed, and any associated conditions including those affecting the chest should be confirmed. Additionally, the advent of CT enterography/enteroclysis (CTE) with dilation of the small intestine using liquid has facilitated detailed evaluation of small intestinal lesions using CT. Several reports published in Europe and the United States describe the role of CTE in the evaluation of OGIB. CTE can simultaneously provide information regarding the intestinal wall and extra-intestinal lesions; therefore, a combination of CTE with capsule endoscopy and balloon endoscopy can enhance diagnostic accuracy. Future studies should focus on strategies to incorporate CTE into the diagnostic algorithm of OGIB. |