Microscopic colitis: Current status, present and future challenges: statements of the European Microscopic Colitis
1Div. of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dept. of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, Linköping University, Sweden. andreas.munch@lio.se
Journal of Crohn'S & Colitis
|June 19, 2012
Summary
Microscopic colitis (MC) is a growing inflammatory bowel disease characterized by watery diarrhea. This review provides the latest updates on MC epidemiology, diagnosis, and pathophysiology, proposing a new treatment algorithm.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Histopathology
Background:
- Microscopic colitis (MC) is an inflammatory bowel disease presenting with chronic watery diarrhea and minimal endoscopic findings.
- Histological examination identifies two main subtypes: lymphocytic colitis and collagenous colitis.
- Despite rising incidence, MC research and understanding remain limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To raise awareness and promote research in microscopic colitis.
- To provide updated information on MC epidemiology, symptoms, and diagnostic criteria.
- To highlight current challenges and propose a new evidence-based treatment algorithm.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature and clinical evidence.
- Consensus statements and comments from European Microscopic Colitis Group (EMCG) members.
- Analysis of data from well-designed, randomized control trials for treatment efficacy.
Main Results:
- The article details the latest epidemiological trends and diagnostic approaches for MC.
- It discusses the pathophysiology of MC, including its subtypes.
- A novel treatment algorithm based on recent trial evidence is presented.
Conclusions:
- There is a need for increased awareness and research in microscopic colitis.
- Updated knowledge on MC diagnosis and pathophysiology is crucial.
- The proposed treatment algorithm offers a new evidence-based approach for managing MC.
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