The prevalence of abdominal computed tomography imaging findings in patients with inflammatory bowel disease who present to the emergency department: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Althaf Azward, Gabriella Ripstein, Edgard Medawar et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the prevalence of abdominal CT imaging findings in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) presenting to the emergency department. Analyzing 19 studies, the results indicated low rates of serious complications, with penetrating IBD findings such as abscesses at 12% for Crohn's disease and 3% for ulcerative colitis. The study suggests a need for more selective CT imaging use in the ED.
Key findings
- Pooled prevalence of abscesses/inflammatory masses was 12% for Crohn's disease and 3% for ulcerative colitis.
- Inflammation was found in 43% of Crohn's disease cases and 48% of ulcerative colitis cases.
- Rates of non-IBD pathologies were less than 5% across various categories.
Why it matters
Understanding the prevalence of CT findings in IBD patients can guide clinicians in making informed decisions about imaging use in the emergency setting, potentially reducing unnecessary radiation exposure and healthcare costs.