Computed tomography of transverse mesocolon: Involvement in gastric carcinoma

The aim of this study was to evaluate computed tomographic (CT) features and anatomic bases of transverse mesocolon involvement by gastric carcinoma. We retrospectively reviewed CT images of 43 patients known to have gastric carcinoma and transverse mesocolon involvement. Emphasis was placed on direct and indirect invasion, lymph node metastasis, and mesocolic seeding. CT findings of transverse mesocolon involvement included direct invasion (20.9%, 9 of 43), indirect invasion via the gastrocolic ligament (41.9%, 18 of 43), increased density of fat (44.2%, 19 of 43), enlarged lymph nodes (46.5%, 20 of 43), “smudged” appearance (32.6%, 14 of 43). CT scan is helpful for the detection of transverse mesocolon involvement by gastric carcinoma, which will be helpful for the clinicians to choose more optimal treatment modalities for individual cases by providing radiologic-anatomical information.