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Collagenous colitis in a Japanese patient
Pathology International
|March 1, 1996
Summary
This case report details collagenous colitis, a rare condition characterized by a thickened collagen band in the colon. The findings highlight its infrequent diagnosis in Japan, with only two prior cases documented.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Collagenous colitis is a rare colonic disorder.
- Diagnosis is typically based on histological findings.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old female presented with mild diarrhea.
- Colonoscopy showed a normal mucosa with a cecal polyp.
- Histological examination revealed a thickened collagen band (10-20 microns) beneath the surface epithelium.
Findings:
- The collagen band stained positive for PAS, Azan, and silver.
- Immunohistochemistry showed weak positivity for collagen type III and negativity for types I and IV.
- Inflammatory cell infiltration (plasma cells, lymphocytes, eosinophils) and increased capillaries were noted in the lamina propria.
- Surface epithelial irregularity was present, but crypts were not distorted.
Implications:
- This case contributes to the limited literature on collagenous colitis in Japan.
- Highlights the importance of histological examination for diagnosing this condition.
- Further research may elucidate the etiology and prevalence in Asian populations.