| Dolichocolon | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Redundant colon, tortuous colon, floppy colon |
 | |
| Abdominal X-ray image with bowelcontrast agent showing dolichocolon | |
| Specialty | Gastroenterology,colorectal surgery,general surgery |
| Complications | Volvulus,Chilaiditi syndrome |
| Usual onset | From birth |
| Duration | Indefinite |
| Causes | Unknown |
| Diagnostic method | Abdominal X-ray,colonoscopy |
| Differential diagnosis | Megacolon |
| Prognosis | Most commonly asymptomatic |
Dolichocolon, also known asredundant colon ortortuous colon, is thecongenital presence of an abnormally-longlarge intestine.[1] It should not be confused with an abnormallywide large intestine, which is calledmegacolon.[citation needed] The name originates fromAncient Greek:δολιχός,romanized: dolĭkhós,lit. 'long, protracted', and "colon".
Dolichocolon may predispose to abnormal rotation of the colon (volvulus) and its interposition between thediaphragm and the liver (Chilaiditi syndrome). The exact cause remains unknown.[2] Dolichocolon is often anincidental finding onabdominalX-rays or incolonoscopy. It is not by itself a disease and as such requires no treatment if asymptomatic.