ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the value of computed tomography(CT)in diagnosing abdominal tuberculosis.Methods CT features of abdominal tuberculosis proven histopathologically or by antituberculous therapy in 16 cases were retrospectively analysed.There were 8 men and 8 women,the age ranged from 20 to 66 years,mean age was 36.4 years.Results The most common CT features of abdominal tuberculosis were:lymphadenectasis(n=11),mesenteric masses(n=6),ascites(n=6,all were loculated),omental thickening(n=7),bowel wall thickening(n=6),pleural fluid(n=2),and pancreatic involvement(n=1).Tuberculous lymphadenosis(mainly the mesentery and peripancreatic lymph nodes involved)had typical CT findings including circular or multilocular enhancement,calcification of lymph nodes,abdominal lymph nodes involved more than that of retroperitoneum and peritonitis(high dense ascites,patchy or nodular lesions in the mesentery and omentum,and intestinal adhesion).Conclusion CT findings in combination with clinical symptoms and laboratory test can improve the diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis.