Ulcerative colitis

Timothy L. Zisman*, Stephen B. Hanauer

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Infl ammatory bowel disease encompasses a spectrum between ulcerative colitis and Crohn disease. Ulcerative colitis is manifest by diffuse, continuous, and superfi cial infl ammation that begins in the rectum and extends proximally to a variable extent in individual patients. In approximately 15% of patients with infl ammatory bowel disease confi ned to the colon the pattern of infl ammation is not distinguishable, necessitating the term indeterminate colitis or IBD - U (unclassifi ed). Features that are helpful to discriminate between ulcerative colitis and Crohn disease include: Family history, smoking history, presence of perianal manifestations, aphthous ulcerations, strictures, and fi stulae. Therapeutic approaches are aimed at induction and maintenance of clinical remissions. Inductive agents include aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, cyclosporine, and monoclonal antibodies targeting tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Maintenance therapies include aminosalicylates, thiopurines, or anti - TNF agents. Colectomy is an option for refractory disease.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationPractical Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Subtitle of host publicationSmall and Large Intestine and Pancreas
PublisherWiley-Blackwell
Pages305-311
Number of pages7
ISBN (Electronic)9781444328417
ISBN (Print)9781405182744
StatePublished - Aug 31 2010

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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