Objective: To assess significance and limitation of CT and radiological gastrointestinal examination in the diagnosis of the intestinal tuberculosis.
Methods: 22 cases of intestinal tuberculosis proven pathologically were analyzed. CT scans and radiological examination were performed (barium meal examination in 18 cases, intestinal or colonic double contrast examination in 10 cases and hypotonic duodenography in 3 cases).
Results: Sensitivity and specificity of diagnosing the intestinal tuberculosis with CT were inferior than that with radiological examination. Lesions in small intestine (not including ileocecal region) were not easily identified by CT scan. However, CT scan was more preferable in identifying abdominal tuberculosis other than intestinal tuberculosis, especially typical tuberculous lymphadenopathy. Intestinal radiological examination was of great significance for the assessment of the status of intestinal tuberculosis by demonstrating mucosal alterations, morphologic appearance of ulcer, bowel deformation, and the involvement of lesion and fissures.
Conclusions: Gastrointestinal radiological examination and CT scans possess their diagnostic value, but have limitation in diagnosis of intestinal tuberculosis. CT scans combined with gastrointestinal radiological examination further improve the accuracy of diagnosis.