Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis

Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis

Diagnosis of ulcerative colitis can be suspected from the symptoms. Certain blood and stools tests are performed to rule out an infection that can mimic the disorder. A visual examination of the lining of the rectum and lower colon ( sigmoidoscopy ) or the entire colon ( colonoscopy ) is always required. During endoscopy, a small part of the tissue is removed for confirmation of the diagnosis. The diagnostic tests most frequently used are : 

Sigmoidoscopy : This procedure allows direct visualization of the rectum and the sigmoid colon. The procedure takes 5-20 minutes, and no sedation is needed.

Colonoscopy : Colonoscopy is a more thorough examination of the entire colon. It takes about 30 minutes. 

Barium enema : In this procedure barium is introduced into the colon through a tube inserted into the rectum, and a series of X-rays are taken. Barium enema is considered the 'gold standard' in distinguishing between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's Disease. 

Laboratory Tests 

Laboratory tests help to substantiate the diagnosis. In a patient of inflammatory bowel disease, the tests reveal:

1. Elevated white blood cell count ( suggests infection) . 
2. Raised ESR- Erthrocyte ( red blood cell) Sedimentation Rate ( 
suggest persistent inflammation).
3. Low haemoglobin and low red blood cell count ( suggest 
anaemia).

Complications of Ulcerative Colitis

Most patients with this disease respond well to treatment. However, some attacks may be severe, requiring hospitalization. All patients of ulcerative colitis do not develop complications. Only about 10 per cent of individuals develop complications. Serious complications that can occur in ulcerative colitis include : 

1. Severe bleeding that may require blood transfusions. 
2. Toxic megacolon, a condition in which the colon becomes extremely distended and paralysed. Occasionally, it may rupture. 
3. Perforation of the colon can cause widespread infection. 
4. The risk of developing colon cancer increases significantly when the disorder begins in childhood or has been present for 8-10 years, or when there is a family history of colon cancer. The increase in risk is dependent on the amount of colon involved. The incidence is greatest for those with pancolitis. However, the severity of the colitis symptoms has no bearing on any increased risk. Regular screenings - either a colonoscopy with biopsy, or a barium enema - should begin eight years after the diagnosis. Analysis of colon biopsies performed during colonoscopy can often predict if colon cancer will occur. In these cases, preventive surgery is recommended. 

Introduction of Ulcerative Colitis
Causes and Types of Ulcerative Colitis
Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis 
Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis
Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis