Toxic megacolon
Alternative names:
toxic dilation of the colon
Definition:
A life-threatening complication of other intestinal conditions,
characterized by symptoms of toxicity and a dilated colon.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
The condition results from extensive damage to the lining
of the lower portion of the large intestine (colon) and inflammation
of underlying cell layers in the colon. It may be associated
with ulcerative colitis,
Crohn's disease, amebiasis,
pseudomembranous colitis,
typhoid, and bacterial dysentery.
In children, severe Hirschsprung's
disease can be a common cause. Contributing factors may
be use of laxatives or cathartics, opiates used to treat diarrhea,
anticholinergic medications, and low serum
potassium levels. The incidence
is 1 out of 100,000 people.
Updated Date: 02/09/00
Updated By:J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
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