Colitis
Definition
Colitis is swelling (inflammation) of the large intestine (colon).
Causes
Colitis can have many different causes, including:
- Acute and chronic infections
- Inflammatory disorders (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's colitis, lymphocytic and collagenous colitis)
- Lack of blood flow (ischemic colitis)
- Past radiation to the large bowel
For more information about a specific type of colitis see:
- CMV colitis (a viral infection of the colon)
- Crohn's disease (regional enteritis)
- Cryptosporidium enterocolitis
- Ischemic colitis
- Necrotizing enterocolitis
- Pseudomembranous colitis
- Ulcerative colitis
Symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- Abdominal bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Bloody stools
- Dehydration
- Diarrhea
- Increased intestinal gas
Exams and Tests
The health care provider can diagnose colitis by inserting a flexible tube into the rectum (flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy) and evaluating specific areas of the colon. Biopsies taken during these tests may show changes related to inflammation.
Other studies that can identify colitis include:
Treatment
Treatment is directed at the cause of disease (infection, inflammation, lack of blood flow, or another cause).
See the conditions listed above for specific recommendations.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The prognosis varies with each disease. See particular conditions listed above.
Possible Complications
- Bleeding
- Hole in the colon
- Toxic megacolon
- Sore (ulceration)
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Blood in the stool
- Expanded (distended) abdomen
Prevention
Prevention depends upon the cause of colitis. See the specific condition.
Reviewed By: Christian Stone, MD, Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
