101 Diverticulitis and colon cancer can sometimes be difficult to differentiate by computed tomography (CT) (Table 101.1). The most helpful differentiating findings seen in diverticulitis are: The most helpful differentiating findings seen in colon cancer are presence of pericolonic lymph nodes and a luminal mass. Pericolonic inflammation out of portion to the degree of bowel thickening is the most specific finding for diverticulitis. In right-sided diverticulitis, the most helpful findings in differentiating the disease from colon cancer are preserved wall enhancement and inflamed diverticula.3 Arrowhead-shaped wall thickening is a sign of diverticulitis, but is also seen in appendicitis.
Diverticulitis versus Colon Cancer
| Diverticulitis | Colon Cancer |
|---|
