[Radiologic differential diagnosis of cecal tumors with special reference to polypoid filling defects in colonic contrast enema].

The radiological differential diagnosis of polypoid filling defects is more difficult in the caecum than in other parts of the colon. A prominent, but normal, ileo-caecal valve, faeces or an inverted appendix stump produce polypoid filling defects on barium enema far more frequently than diseases of the ileo-caecal region. Unlike the appearances seen in the rest of the colon, where it is possible to make a morphological and radiological diagnosis, it is necessary, in the caecum, to localise the filling defect accurately. This will indicate whether it is due to the ileo-caecal valve or the appendix. Only thereafter can a morphological assessment be made. From a practical point of view, a classification of polypoid filling defects in the caecum into changes due to the ileo-caecal valve, the appendix and of true tumours is therefore useful.