Large intestine inflammation

Description

Ulcerative colitis or inflammatory disease of the colon followed by appearance of ulcers and episodes of bloody diarrhea. The inflammation begins in the rectum and spreads upwards. The ulcerated areas can get inflamed and small abscesses can form in the mucosa of the colon. Symptoms can be confused with the symptoms of infection of the colon. Symptoms are repeating. This disease is most often found in women between ages 15 and 40. There is a growing appearance of the cancer of colon linked with the ulcerative colitis.

Symptoms

Diarrhea, often with blood and mucus, cramps and abdominal pain, fever, weight loss, sensation of discomfort in the colon which leads to frequent going to bathroom.

Overview

Anamnesis and physical examination will be performed. The most common test for setting the diagnosis is colonoscopy. Blood analysis is done to determine the existence of anemia and inflammation markers, such as ESR and CRP. CT scan of the stomach can be done to exclude the complications of colitis.

Tests

Colonoscopy

Additional analyses

Colonoscopy with biopsy, barium enema

Specialists

General Practice, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, Internal Medicine

Therapy

Objective of treatment is reducing of the inflammation which will lead to alleviating of the symptoms, reducing of symptoms and enabling the colon to heal. Treatment can involve: hospitalization, 5-Aminosalicylates such as mesalamine (Asacol), immunomodulators (azathioprine/Imuran,6-mercaptopurine/6-MP, infliximab and Remicade). Surgical removal of entire colon (complete colectomy) can be needed if the disease cannot be controlled with medicines. This will cure the disease and remove the risk of tumor of the colon.