Ultrasound features of intestinal loops in children with cystic fibrosis

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Abstract Aims This study aimed to characterize sonographic changes in the intestinal loops of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Methods Using a descriptive-analytical cross-sectional design, we studied outpatients diagnosed with CF referred to two children’s hospitals and their affiliated clinics, Mashhad University of Medical Science (MUMS), during 2022–2024. A control group of children without any history of gastrointestinal complaints or disorders was also included. Abdominal ultrasounds were performed by an experienced radiologist, who assessed the intestinal loops for dilatation, wall thickening, and abnormalities in surrounding tissues. Informed consent was obtained from parents or patients. Data were meticulously recorded using a structured checklist and analyzed. Results The study included 123 participants (54 with cystic fibrosis and 69 controls), with no significant demographic differences between groups. The most common abnormality observed in the CF group was a lattice-like pattern, followed by the ileum dilatation (70% and 52.9%). Trapped meconium or lymphoid hyperplasia was present in the appendices of 51.4% of the CF patients. Thickening of the cecal walls was observed in 50% of these children. Furthermore, 16% exhibited an associated jejunal abnormality (severe type). Fatty liver was identified in 26.2% of the children, and 19.1% displayed signs of liver fibrosis. Overall, abnormal ultrasound findings were observed in 82.4% of CF patients, showing statistically significant differences from the control group, except in cases of fatty liver and renal stone (P ≥ 0.05). Conclusion The most cystic fibrosis patients exhibited at least one sonographic sign of intestinal and digestive system abnormalities. Common sonographic features include dilated ileum with lattice-like patterns, thickened cecal walls associated with echogenic fecaloma, and dilated appendices likely resulting from lymphoid hyperplasia or retained meconium.

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