Colitis is an inflammation of the large intestine that can be caused by many different disease processes. These processes include acute and chronic infections, 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.

Symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dehydration, abdominal bloating, increased intestinal gas, and bloody stools.

Exams and Tests

Colitis may be identified by 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:

Barium enema
Abdominal CT scan
Abdominal MRI
Abdominal x-ray

Treatment is directed at the underlying cause of disease, whether it be infection, inflammation, lack of blood flow, or another cause.

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a disease that causes inflammation and sores, called ulcers, in the lining of the rectum and colon. Ulcers form where inflammation has killed the cells that usually line the colon, then bleed and produce pus. Inflammation in the colon also causes the colon to empty frequently, causing diarrhea.

When the inflammation occurs in the rectum and lower part of the colon it is called ulcerative proctitis. If the entire colon is affected it is called pancolitis. If only the left side of the colon is affected it is called limited or distal colitis.

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the general name for diseases that cause inflammation in the small intestine and colon. It can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to other intestinal disorders and to another type of IBD called Crohn's disease. Crohn's disease differs because it causes inflammation deeper within the intestinal wall and can occur in other parts of the digestive system including the small intestine, mouth, esophagus, and stomach.

Ulcerative colitis can occur in people of any age, but it usually starts between the ages of 15 and 30, and less frequently between 50 and 70 years of age. It affects men and women equally and appears to run in families, with reports of up to 20 percent of people with ulcerative colitis having a family member or relative with ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. A higher incidence of ulcerative colitis is seen in Whites and people of Jewish descent.

Colitis is the term used to refer to the inflammation of the mucosa lining the bowels, a condition which affects over 2 million Americans each year. The inflammation usually leads to ulcer formation, and in some cases perforation of the bowel mucosa. There are many types of colitis, among which are ulcerative colitis, ischemic colitis, Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, necrotizing enterocolitis, and pseudomembranous colitis.

Although the main causes of colitis is not yet known, factors associated with the formation of the disease include exposure to bacteria and viruses which led to infections, radiation treatments in the abdomen, age, genetics and previous antibiotic use. It often occurs in people ages 15 to 30 although the disease may recur once a person reach his or her 50's and 60's.

A change in bowel habits, diarrhea and abdominal pain are the most common symptoms of colitis. Inflammation and the presence of bacterial toxins is the main reason for the diarrhea. Dehydration and malnutrition may result if the lost fluids and nutrients are not replaced immediately. Blood in the stool and rectal bleeding are also seen in patients suffering from the disease. Severe rectal bleeding may lead to anemia, which is detectable through a blood test. Other manifestations may be specific to the particular type of colitis. If the disease goes untreated, complications like toxic megacolon, perforation, and bleeding may develop.

The main goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and prevent the exacerbation of symptoms. Anti-inflammatory drugs and antibacterials, as well as corticosteroids are the drugs of choice in the treatment of colitis.

Dietary modifications are always an important part of the treatment for colitis. Patients are advised to avoid foods high in fats, sugars, salts and preservatives, as well as coffee and alcohol. Adequate fluid intake and vitamin and mineral supplementation are necessary to prevent dehydration and malnutrition. Surgical treatment may be necessary in a few cases. With the proper treatment and adherence to the prescribed diet, patients are able to recover and lead fully functional lives.