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microscopic colitis
ICD-10 Codes
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Description
What is Microscopic Colitis?
Microscopic colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the large intestine, also known as the colon. It is characterized by chronic inflammation and irritation of the inner lining of the colon, leading to symptoms such as frequent, watery diarrhea.
Causes and Symptoms
- Microscopic colitis is caused by abnormal reactions of the immune system, which leads to inflammation in the colon [1].
- The condition causes chronic watery diarrhea, often accompanied by cramping and abdominal pain [2][5].
- In some cases, patients may experience ongoing symptoms such as tummy pain and cramps [6].
Types of Microscopic Colitis
There are two main types of microscopic colitis: collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis. Both types are characterized by chronic inflammation in the colon, leading to watery diarrhea [4].
Prevalence and Diagnosis
- Microscopic colitis is a relatively rare condition, but it can affect people of all ages [9].
- The condition was first recognized by doctors 40 years ago [8].
- A diagnosis of microscopic colitis is typically made through a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and endoscopic examination [not provided in context].
References
[1] Context: Microscopic colitis is swelling and irritation, called inflammation, of the large intestine. This large intestine is also called the colon. [2] Context: Microscopic colitis causes frequent, watery diarrhea. [3] Context: Microscopic colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease, a chronic condition of inflammation in your colon. [4] Context: Microscopic colitis, which includes collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis, is characterized by chronic watery diarrhea caused by inflammation in the colon ... [5] Context: Microscopic colitis is a type of inflammation of the colon, or large intestine, that can cause watery diarrhea and cramping. [6] Context: Microscopic Colitis affects the colon, causing symptoms such as ongoing, watery poo and tummy pain and cramps. [7] Context: The term microscopic colitis is used to describe chronic, watery diarrhea in patients with only microscopic evidence of inflammation. [8] Context: Sep 16, 2024 — Microscopic Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large bowel (colon and rectum) and was first recognized by doctors 40 years ago. [9] Context: by J Tome · 2021 · Cited by 26 — Microscopic colitis (MC) is an inflammatory disease of the colon and a common cause of chronic watery diarrhea, predominantly in older patients.
Additional Characteristics
- A type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine.
- Chronic inflammation and irritation of the inner lining of the colon.
- Causes frequent, watery diarrhea.
- Two main types: collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis.
- Relatively rare condition affecting people of all ages.
Signs and Symptoms
Understanding Microscopic Colitis
Microscopic colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large bowel (colon and rectum). The condition was first recognized by doctors 40 years ago [5]. It is characterized by chronic watery diarrhea caused by inflammation in the colon [6].
Common Symptoms
The most common symptom of microscopic colitis is chronic, watery diarrhea. In some cases, this can occur frequently - about five to 10 times a day [2]. Other symptoms may include:
- Abdominal cramping or bloating
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Fecal incontinence
- Increased urgency or frequency of bowel movements
These symptoms can last for weeks to months, and in some cases, they may be accompanied by pain, cramps, and bloating [3].
Possible Causes
Experts aren't sure what causes microscopic colitis, but they think genes and abnormal immune responses might play a role. The exact cause is still unknown, and more research is needed to understand the condition better.
It's essential to note that there is no cure for microscopic colitis, but dietary changes and medical treatment can help manage the symptoms [7]. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnostic Tests
Diagnostic Tests for Microscopic Colitis
Microscopic colitis can be diagnosed through various diagnostic tests, which help rule out other digestive conditions and confirm the presence of this inflammatory bowel disease.
- Colonoscopy with Biopsies: A colonoscopy is a procedure where a doctor uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the colon. During this procedure, multiple random biopsies (tissue samples) are taken from the colon and examined under a microscope for signs of microscopic colitis [1][2].
- Blood Tests: Blood tests can be ordered to check for certain markers or antibodies that may indicate an underlying condition contributing to microscopic colitis [5].
- Endoscopy and Biopsy: An endoscopy is another procedure where a doctor uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the colon. A biopsy may also be taken during this procedure to confirm the diagnosis [6][8].
- Stool Studies: Stool studies can help identify any underlying infections or conditions that may be contributing to microscopic colitis [5].
It's essential to note that a thorough medical history and physical examination are also crucial in diagnosing microscopic colitis, along with these diagnostic tests.
References: [1] Context 1: Doctors order a colonoscopy with biopsies to diagnose microscopic colitis and rule out other digestive conditions. [2] Context 2: The best way to diagnose your condition is by examining a tissue sample (biopsy) of your colon under a microscope. [3] Context 3: Microscopic colitis can be diagnosed through various diagnostic tests, which help rule out other digestive conditions and confirm the presence of this inflammatory bowel disease. [5] Context 5: Mar 25, 2021 — A thorough history and physical examation with routine blood work including complete blood cell count, metabolic profile, thyroid profile, stool studies, and ... [6] Context 6: Nov 15, 2023 — Laboratory studies · Endoscopy and biopsy. [8] Context 8: Aug 22, 2023 — Diagnosis of microscopic colitis is confirmed by the presence of characteristic pathohistologic findings from ileocolonoscopy biopsies taken ...
Additional Diagnostic Tests
- Blood Tests
- Stool Studies
- Endoscopy and Biopsy
- Colonoscopy with Biopsies
Treatment
Treatment Options for Microscopic Colitis
Microscopic colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can be effectively managed with various treatment options. The primary goal is to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
- Immunosuppressants: These medications can help suppress the immune system's abnormal response, reducing inflammation in the colon. Examples include azathioprine and mercaptopurine.
- TNF inhibitors: Adalimumab (Humira) and infliximab (Remicade) are biologic medicines that target tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a protein involved in inflammation. These medications can be effective for some patients with microscopic colitis.
- Cromolyn sodium: This medication targets mast cells, which play a role in inflammation. Cromolyn sodium may help reduce symptoms in some individuals.
First-Line Treatment
Antidiarrheal therapy is usually the first-line treatment for patients with microscopic colitis. Loperamide or similar medications can help manage diarrhea and alleviate symptoms.
- Budesonide: This corticosteroid medication works locally within the intestines to reduce inflammation and symptoms of microscopic colitis.
- Vedolizumab: In some cases, vedolizumab may be recommended for patients with budesonide-refractory microscopic colitis.
Other Treatment Options
In addition to these medications, other treatment options may include:
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs can help manage symptoms by reducing inflammation in the stomach and intestines.
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs may be prescribed to help manage anxiety or depression associated with microscopic colitis.
Important Considerations
It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on managing microscopic colitis. They will assess individual needs and develop an effective treatment plan.
Sources:
- [1] Treatment of Microscopic Colitis, Jan 16, 2024
- [2] How is microscopic colitis treated?,
- [3] by N Chande · 2008 · Cited by 16 — Antidiarrheal therapy with loperamide or similar medications is usually the first-line medical therapy for patients with microscopic colitis.
- [9] The most common therapy for use in microscopic colitis is budesonide (Entocort®), which works inside the intestines to reduce inflammation and symptoms of the disease.
Recommended Medications
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Vedolizumab
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
- Adalimumab (Humira)
- Infliximab (Remicade)
- Cromolyn sodium
- budesonide
- Budesonide
- mercaptopurine
- loperamide
- Loperamide
- azathioprine
- Azathioprine
💊 Drug information is sourced from ChEBI (Chemical Entities of Biological Interest) database. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication. Click on any medication name for detailed information.
Differential Diagnosis
Understanding Differential Diagnosis in Microscopic Colitis
The differential diagnosis of microscopic colitis refers to the process of ruling out other possible causes of chronic diarrhea, which is a hallmark symptom of this condition. In the context of microscopic colitis, differential diagnosis involves identifying and excluding other conditions that may present with similar symptoms.
Conditions to Consider
According to various medical sources [7][8], the following conditions should be considered in the differential diagnosis of microscopic colitis:
- Bacterial Overgrowth Syndrome
- Celiac Disease (Sprue)
- Crohn Disease
- Giardiasis
- Hyperthyroidism and Thyrotoxicosis
These conditions can cause chronic diarrhea, which may mimic the symptoms of microscopic colitis. It is essential to consider these possibilities when evaluating patients with suspected microscopic colitis.
Importance of Differential Diagnosis
Differential diagnosis plays a crucial role in the management of microscopic colitis [9]. By ruling out other possible causes of chronic diarrhea, healthcare providers can focus on the specific treatment and management strategies for microscopic colitis. This approach ensures that patients receive the most appropriate care for their condition.
References:
[7] Mar 25, 2021 — Microscopic colitis should be considered as a differential diagnosis in the workup of chronic diarrhea, especially in the elderly population. [8] Sep 16, 2024 — Differential diagnosis Differential diagnoses, which should be ruled out, include bile acid diarrhea, lactose malabsorption, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ... [9] Sep 16, 2024 — Microscopic Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large bowel (colon and rectum) and was first recognized by doctors 40 years ago.
Additional Differential Diagnoses
- inflammatory bowel disease
- gluten allergy
- inflammatory bowel disease 18
- inflammatory bowel disease 19
- inflammatory bowel disease 16
- inflammatory bowel disease 24
- inflammatory bowel disease 25
- obsolete menopausal and postmenopausal disorder
- obsolete ileal disease
- VIPoma
- Celiac Disease (Sprue)
- Hyperthyroidism and Thyrotoxicosis
- Bacterial Overgrowth Syndrome
- disease
- giardiasis
Additional Information
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It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with questions about your medical condition.