Radiologic-pathologic correlation of inflammatory bowel disease.

The various inflammatory bowel diseases produce a wide spectrum of mucosal and bowel wall changes. No one radiolographic sign, or even combination of signs, is completely pathognomonic. A consideration of the pathophysiology responsible for the radiographic findings is helpful as an aid to understanding and to limit reliance upon matching of nonspecific signs with specific diagnosis. Patterns of mucosal ulceration, polyp formation, and strictures in the common superficial and transmural inflammatory diseases are emphasized.