Intramural fat in the duodenum and proximal small intestine in patients with celiac disease.

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to describe and illustrate intramural fat in the duodenum and jejunum, to our knowledge a previously undescribed finding in celiac disease. Celiac disease is known to produce inflammation of the duodenum and jejunum. We propose that postinflammatory intramural fat deposition occurs in a distribution likely unique for celiac disease. CT scans of the chest and abdomen obtained for many indications include these portions of the bowel. Celiac disease is now recognized as a common disease, and the recognition of intramural fat in the duodenum and jejunum on CT may allow earlier diagnosis.