Ultrasound aspects in the infiltrative neoplasia of the colon

In the tumor pathology of the colon, the ultrasound can guide the diagnostic, being completed by some other medical imagery tests (endoscope, radiographic, pathologic). The present study follows the ultrasound description on patients to whom the ultrasound was of primordial intent, appointed for acute abdominal pain, palpable abdominal mass, occlusive manifestations or a weight loss syndrome. The ultrasound examination has shown the presence of an ovoid formation situated with a colon's projection area with a regulated exterior line being composed from three concentric zones as such: in the central region an intense hyperechoic band of variable thickness given by the existing colon air, the echoic or hypoechoic middle layer of significant width proportional with the degree of tumor infiltration which has an irregular line of separation from the other layers, the exterior hypoechoic layer made by the rest of the colon (muscles, serous). In the extended infiltrative processes a kidney-like aspect can be described. There was a persisting image non influenced in repeated examinations.

Conclusions:

1. The infiltrative processes of the colon can be ultrasound described as concentric three layered ovoid formations (hyper- iso- hypo- dense through air-tumor infiltration-colonic wall)

2. The ultrasound allows the fast differentiation with other tumors or diseases and can appreciate the tumor extension degree, orientating also other investigations and the subsequent therapeutic attitude.