Microscopic colitis

Microscopic colitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the colon that is only visible when the colon's tissue is examined under a microscope. The term "microscopic colitis" is derived from the Greek words "micros" meaning small, "skopein" meaning to look at, and "kolon" which is the Greek term for the colon.

Pronunciation

Microscopic colitis is pronounced as /ˌmaɪkrəˈskɒpɪk kəˈlaɪtɪs/.

Etymology

The term "microscopic colitis" is derived from the Greek words "micros" meaning small, "skopein" meaning to look at, and "kolon" which is the Greek term for the colon.

Types

There are two main types of microscopic colitis: Lymphocytic colitis and Collagenous colitis. Both types are characterized by an increase in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, in the colon tissue.

Symptoms

The main symptom of microscopic colitis is chronic, watery diarrhea. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, weight loss, and nausea.

Causes

The exact cause of microscopic colitis is unknown, but it may be related to a bacterial infection, the use of certain medications, or an autoimmune response.

Diagnosis

Microscopic colitis is diagnosed through a Colonoscopy with Biopsy. The tissue samples taken during the biopsy are then examined under a microscope to look for inflammation and other changes.

Treatment

Treatment for microscopic colitis may include medications to control inflammation and diarrhea, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgery.

Related Terms

• Inflammation
• Colon
• Lymphocytes
• Colonoscopy
• Biopsy

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Microscopic colitis
• Wikipedia's article - Microscopic colitis

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