Enteroliths in Crohn's disease: a case report

Abstract

Bowel wall inflammation in Crohn's disease can be the cause of strictures along the small and large bowel. Frequently there is an accompanying prestenotic bowel dilation. This creates stasis of bowel fluids, which can eventually lead to the formation of enteroliths. These are hard dense masses inside the bowel that may be responsible for (sub)obstruction, ulceration and even perforation. The latter is caused by mechanical stress on an already weak and inflamed bowel wall. We present a rare case of a Crohn's disease patient in her early thirties who was seen at the emergency department with acute abdominal pain. Radiographs and CT examination showed the appearance of enterolithiasis. Furthermore, we provide diagnostic and therapeutic options.