Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026
08:24
Injections of Lipopolysaccharide into Mice to Mimic Entrance of Microbial-derived Products After Intestinal Barrier Breach
Published on: May 2, 2018
The pathogenesis of idiopathic megacolon
William A Meier-Ruge1, Heinrich Müller-Lobeck, Franz Stoss
1Department of Pathology, University Medical School, Basel, Switzerland. dsc.oberwill@bluewin.ch
European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|October 13, 2006
Summary
Idiopathic megacolon is linked to collagen abnormalities in the colon
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Histopathology
- Colorectal Surgery
Background:
- The exact cause of idiopathic megacolon remains debated.
- Potential causes include anomalies in the gastrointestinal nervous system or smooth muscle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the histological and immunohistochemical characteristics of idiopathic megacolon.
- To identify potential underlying causes of the condition.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 63 idiopathic megacolon resections using histological and immunohistochemical techniques.
- Staining for connective tissue, collagen types, smooth muscle actin, and interstitial cells of Cajal.
- Examination of the enteric nervous system.
Main Results:
- Idiopathic megacolon showed atrophy of the connective tissue membrane of the myenteric plexus and muscularis propria.
- A significant deficiency in collagen type III within the muscularis propria was observed.
- The condition was seven times more frequent in females.
- The myenteric plexus was largely normal.
Conclusions:
- Atrophy of the tendinous fibre net in the muscularis propria impairs gut peristalsis, leading to colon distension.
- Collagen staining is a reliable diagnostic method for idiopathic megacolon.
- Normal myenteric plexus findings suggest a primary metabolic defect in the muscularis propria.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the colon characterized by continuous mucosal inflammation that typically begins in the rectum and extends proximally in a uniform pattern. Its pathogenesis involves a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, immune dysregulation, and environmental influences. These factors converge to impair the colon’s epithelial defenses and promote an exaggerated inflammatory response against luminal contents.Breakdown of the Mucosal BarrierA...
01:28Amebiasis
Entamoeba histolytica, a protozoan parasite, is responsible for intestinal and extraintestinal amebiasis. Though a significant proportion of infections remain asymptomatic, approximately 50 million individuals annually are estimated to present with clinical disease, resulting in up to 100,000 deaths globally. The disease burden is disproportionately high in regions with lower socioeconomic status, such as parts of India, Africa, Mexico, and Latin America.Etiology and TransmissionThe infective...
01:27Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis
Introduction
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
01:25Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Crohn's Disease
Crohn’s disease is a chronic, relapsing form of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by segmental, transmural inflammation that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Its pathogenesis arises from a combination of genetic susceptibility, environmental exposures, epithelial barrier dysfunction, and immune dysregulation. Together, these factors lead to an exaggerated immune response against components of the gut microbiome.Genetic and Environmental InfluencesMultiple genetic...
01:07Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...
01:27Diverticular Disease of the Colon
Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...