Which radiographic finding is associated with Crohn's disease?

Crohn's disease is characterized by several distinct radiographic features due to its inflammatory nature and potential for stricturing of the bowel. The "string sign" is particularly associated with Crohn's disease and reflects a narrowed segment of the intestine, typically seen in the terminal ileum. This sign appears on imaging studies, such as an upper gastrointestinal series with a small bowel follow-through, where the affected segment exhibits a long, thin profile resembling a string.

This phenomenon occurs due to the transmural inflammation and resultant fibrosis that leads to narrowing. As the bowel lumen becomes significantly constricted in Crohn's disease, the contrast material flows through this narrowed area, creating the "string sign." This finding is typically not present in other intestinal diseases, which often have different types of bowel obstructions or lesions.

Understanding the "string sign" in the context of Crohn's disease provides valuable insight into how the chronic inflammatory process can lead to structural changes in the bowel, affecting radiographic appearances and clinical management.