Barium Enema

Air Contrast Study, Lower Gastrointestinal Series

Why It Is Done

A barium enema is done to:

• Screen for colon polyps or colon cancer. Most medical experts recommend colon cancer screening beginning at age 50 for people who do not have an increased risk of colon cancer. Earlier screening is recommended for people who have an increased risk of colon cancer, such as those with a family history of colon cancer.
• Identify inflammation of the intestinal wall that occurs in inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. A barium enema also may be used to monitor the progress of these diseases.
• Detect problems with the structure of the large intestine, such as narrowed areas (strictures) or pockets or sacs (diverticula) in the intestinal wall.
• Help correct a condition called ileocolic intussusception, in which the end of a child's small intestine protrudes into the large intestine.
• Evaluate abdominal symptoms such as altered bowel habits, anemia, or unexplained weight loss.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: May 2, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
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