Clin Endosc.  2012 Sep;45(3):269-273.

Role of Computed Tomography Enterography/Magnetic Resonance Enterography: Is It in Prime Time?

• Kim AY

Abstract

Today, cross-sectional imaging modalities, such as computed tomography enterography (CTE) and magnetic resonance enterography (MRE), are particularly suited to evaluate small bowel diseases, especially Crohn's disease (CD). It is well known that CTE/MRE can provide excellent assessment of disease activity as well as the macroscopic features, extramural abnormalities, and complications of the small intestine in patients with CD. In general, CTE is considered as the first-line modality for the evaluation of suspected inflammatory bowel disease and for long-term assessment or follow-up of these patients. Because of the advantage of lack of radiation, MRE is being used more frequently, especially in children or young patients with CD.

Keyword

CT enterography; MR enterography; Small intestine; Inflammatory bowel diseases; Crohn disease

MeSH Terms

Child
Crohn Disease
Humans
Imidazoles
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Intestine, Small
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Nitro Compounds
Imidazoles
Nitro Compounds

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Computed tomography enterography (CTE) of 26-year-old male with active Crohn's disease. On coronal volume rendering image of CTE shows increased attenuation in perienteric fat (double arrows), mesenteric haziness, and engorged vasa recta (thick arrow) along small intestine, indicating active inflammation, with enteroenteric fistulous tracts.

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  Fig. 2 Magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) of 37-year-old male with active Crohn's disease. Coronal reconstruction image of arterial-phase MRE demonstrates multifocal eccentric bowel wall thickening with intense mural enhancement of small intestine (arrows), indicating active inflammation.

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