Enteroliths in tuberculous strictures of intestines

Abstract

Eight cases of opaque enteroliths associated with tuberculous strictures are described. Long history of chronic partial intestinal obstruction with occasional episodes of acute attacks managed by conservative treatment was the presenting feature in all cases. Plain X-ray revealed solitary (6 cases) or multiple (2 cases) radio-opaque densities showing wide mobility on successive roentgenograms. The enteroliths had a peripheral dense rim and in some X-rays 'coin on end' position indicating disc shaped configuration. Multiple enteroliths were either closeted or widely separated indicating free longitudinal mobility inside the dilated loop of intestines proximal to a stricture. Intra-luminal location was documented in three cases on barium studies. In three cases enteroliths were submerged in the barium filled dilated loop of intestines. One case had associated cholelithiasis and cholecystitis without any evidence of communication between the biliary and gastrointestinal tract.