Sigmoidoscopic diagnosis of left-sided pneumatosis coli

Summary and Conclusions

Two cases of left-sided pneumatosis coli are presented. In each case the diagnosis was made during sigmoidoscopy and confirmed by biopsy and roentgenologic examination.

In one case the presence of a frothy discharge at each examination suggested that the discharge had some relationship to the disease.

Multiple submucosal lumps in that portion of the bowel which can be visualized during sigmoidoscopic examination should arouse suspicion of left-sided pneumatosis coli, which may be confirmed by biopsy and roentgenologic examination.

The benign course of the disease in both of the cases and complete resolution of the condition in one supports the belief that the disease may be self-limited.