Gastrointestinal Ultrasound in Infectious Diseases: A Comprehensive Review

Medicina (Kaunas). 2024 Aug 27;60(9):1402. doi: 10.3390/medicina60091402.

Abstract

Infectious diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract often present diagnostic challenges due to the variability in clinical manifestations and overlapping symptoms. Ultrasound imaging has emerged as a valuable tool in the assessment of gastrointestinal pathologies, offering non-invasive and real-time visualization of anatomical structures. This review aims to explore the role of ultrasound in the diagnosis and management of infectious diseases involving the gastrointestinal tract. We discuss the imaging features of various infectious etiologies, such as bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections, highlighting characteristic findings on ultrasound scans. Additionally, we provide insights into the utility of ultrasound for the assessment of treatment response. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing literature and clinical case studies, this review underscores the significance of ultrasound imaging as a frontline modality in the diagnosis and management of infectious diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract.

Keywords: bowel ultrasound; gastrointestinal diseases; gastrointestinal ultrasound; infections; infectious diseases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Communicable Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases* / diagnostic imaging
  • Gastrointestinal Tract / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Ultrasonography* / methods

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.