Small Animal Radiology and Ultrasound: A Diagnostic Atlas and Text

350 Small Animal Radiolo g y and Ultrasono graphy
Density Changes. Density changes are almost exclusively limited to the presence of foreign
matter (e.g., stones or metallic material) or obstipation with the presence of fecal
material, which may become nearly bone dense. In cases of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency,
the colon may be filled with fluid-dense stool that is mixed with many gas bubbles.
Rarely, gas may accumulate within the colon wall secondary to chronic colitis because of
gas-producing bacteria, such as Clostridia, and will be visible radiographically as linear
lucent streaks (Fig 3-124). 404,405 Mineralization of the colon or rectal wall may be seen in
association with some neoplasms. Metallic foreign bodies may be present in the lumen or
rarely may become embedded in the wall of the colon.
Fig. 3-124 A, A 2-year-old male
English Cocker Spaniel was brought
in for evaluation of diarrhea and
tenesmus. Radiographic findings
include thickened descending colon
wall with a radiolucent streak within
the wall. B, Close-up view with
arrows pointing to the radiolucent
streak within the wall of the colon.
Diagnosis: Pneumatosis coli.
A
B