Caecal mass on barium enema study--a case for routine colonoscopy.

Prolapse of the ileal mucosa through the ileo-caecal valve or minor ileo-caecal intussuception is not uncommon and may occasionally be mistaken radiologically for a caecal neoplasm, especially if intestinal obstruction, abdominal pain or rectal bleeding is present. Colonoscopic visualisation and biopsy is important before surgery is advised. We describe a case of ileal mucosa prolapse masquerading as a caecal neoplasm on barium enema study. Colonoscopy showed prolapse of the ileal mucosa which was easily reduced by air insufflation and therefore unnecessary surgery was avoided.