Inflammation of the large intestine (colon).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Colitis is an inflammation of the large intestine that is caused by many different disease processes, including acute and chronic infections, primary inflammatory disorders (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's colitis, lymphocytic and collagenous colitis), lack of blood flow (ischemic colitis), and history of radiation to the large bowel. For more information about a specific type of colitis see:

Signs and tests

Colitis may be identified on flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy (In both of these tests, a flexible tube is inserted in the rectum and specific areas of the colon are evaluated). Biopsies taken during these tests may show changes related to inflammation. Other studies that can identify colitis include:

Treatment

Treatment is directed at the underlying cause of disease whether it be infection, inflammation, lack of blood flow, etc. See particular conditions listed above for specific recommendations.

Expectations (prognosis)

The prognosis varies with each disease state, and thus depends upon the underlying disease.

Complications

Colitis may result in bleeding, ulceration, perforation (a hole in the colon), or toxic megacolon .

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms like abdominal pain, abdominal distention, or blood in the stool.

Prevention

Prevention depends upon the underlying cause of colitis. See the specific condition.