Intestinal Complications of Ulcerative Colitis

Intestinal Complications of UC

• Hemorrhage is a common complication, often resulting in anemia.
• Perforation occurs when the intestinal wall is weakened due to chronic inflammation and ulceration, leading to an opening.
• Intestinal contents can leak into the abdomen through the perforation, causing peritonitis.
• Fulminant colitis, which can progress to toxic megacolon, is a serious complication.
• Toxic megacolon arises when the entire thickness of the intestinal wall is damaged, resulting in intestinal dilation, paralysis, and abdominal distention.
• Toxic megacolon is characterized by transverse colon dilation exceeding 6 cm, leading to excessive intestinal gas accumulation and severe abdominal distention.
• Untreated toxic megacolon can result in bowel perforation.
• Contributing factors to toxic megacolon include hypokalemia and the use of antidiarrheals, opiates, antispasmodics, and certain antidepressants.

Colorectal Cancer Risk in UC

• Patients with UC face an increased risk of colorectal cancer proportionate to disease duration, extent of inflammation, and colon involvement.
• Annual colonoscopies are recommended for those at the highest risk.
• For those at a lower risk, colonoscopies are recommended every 1 to 3 years.

This quiz focuses on the intestinal complications associated with ulcerative colitis, including hemorrhage, perforation, and toxic megacolon. Learn about the risks, symptoms, and potential consequences of these serious conditions to enhance your understanding of ulcerative colitis management.