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Abdominal wall pathology on a CT scan
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025
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Enlarged lymph nodes
Pathological formations of the abdominal wall are most often localized in the groin area. Lymph nodes enlarged to 2 cm in diameter should not be considered pathologically changed. Large conglomerates of lymph nodes are characteristic of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and are less common in lymphogranulomatosis (Hodgkin's disease).
In the differential diagnosis, it is necessary to keep in mind the hematoma of the inguinal region at the site of puncture of the femoral artery after performing selective angiography according to Seldinger.
Abscesses
Necrosis foci may occur in the subcutaneous fat of the gluteal region at the sites of intramuscular injections. After the inflammatory process, residual effects occur in the form of formations of increased density with a clear outline and partial calcification.
From the gluteal muscles, the abscess may spread to the pelvic area through the ischiorectal fossa. After diffuse infiltration of the gluteal muscles with surrounding edema, tissue softening may occur and, depending on the size and location of the lesion, the sciatic nerve may be involved in the process.
Large metastases tend to invade the abdominal wall muscles and often have central necrosis of low density. Contrast enhancement is a sign of a malignant or inflammatory process. If the degree of contrast enhancement is in doubt, the density of the region of interest should be compared before and after the administration of the contrast agent.
Metastases to the abdominal wall may not be detected until they become infected and an abscess develops. In this case, it is punctured and drained. The second metastasis, located lower, on the right side of the abdominal wall, was not detected at first. This is due to the fact that the clinical picture was caused by the nearby abscess.
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