Secondary Neoplasms of the Bowel

Abstract

On the basis of 107 cases, the authors applied and evaluated a practical classification in the roentgen analysis of secondary bowel neoplasms. A distinction was made between direct invasion, intraperitoneal seeding, and hematogenous metastases. Characteristic radiologic features are helpful in identification of the mode of dissemination and as indicators of the likely primary site. The role of anatomic relationships and mesenteric attachments, particularly in cases of direct invasion, is stressed. The distribution of seeding correlates with the known pathways of spread and localization of intraperitoneal fluid. The frequency and appearance of melanoma and breast embolic metastases are emphasized.