Capsule Endoscopy in the evaluation of Small Bowel Tumors and Polyps

Small bowel tumors (SBT) are rare. Their diagnosis by small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) is usually made during the evaluation of obscure GI bleeding or unexplained iron deficiency anemia. SBCE has a good sensitivity for the detection of SBT. However, submucosal tumors, large or proximally located SBTs have a higher risk of being missed by SBCE. SBCE should be considered in complicated or refractory celiac sprue and advanced melanoma, as these patients are at risk for SBT. The retention rate of a video capsule in SBTs is slightly higher than in patients with obscure GI bleeding, but rarely causes obstruction and typically can be resolved during resection of the tumor.

Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy - February 23, 2015 Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Peter Baltes, Niehls Kurniawan, Martin Keuchel Source Type: research