Ulcerative colitis

Alternative names:

nonspecific ulcerative colitis

Definition:

A chronic, episodic, inflammatory disease of the large intestine and rectum characterized by bloody diarrhea.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause is unknown, and it may affect any age group although there are peaks at ages 15 to 30 and then again at ages 50 to 70.

The disease usually begins in the rectal area and may eventually extend through the entire large bowel. Repeated episodes of inflammation lead to thickening of the wall of the intestine and rectum with scar tissue. Death of colon tissue or sepsis may occur with severe disease. The symptoms vary in severity and their onset may be gradual or sudden. Attacks may be provoked by many factors, including respiratory infections or stress.

Risk factors include a family history of ulcerative colitis or Jewish ancestry. The incidence is 5 out of 10,000 people.