Microscopic colitis: a review.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Histopathology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Microscopic colitis, encompassing collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis, is diagnosed with increasing frequency.
• While typically benign, it can lead to severe complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate demographic factors associated with microscopic colitis.
• To systematically assess current treatment options for microscopic colitis.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar.
• Publications up to December 2013 were reviewed, identifying 248 relevant articles on microscopic colitis, collagenous colitis, and lymphocytic colitis.

Main Results:

• Microscopic colitis presents with common symptoms but distinct histopathology for collagenous and lymphocytic subtypes.
• Peak incidence occurs between 60-70 years with a female predominance.
• Associations with autoimmune diseases and certain medications (NSAIDs, PPIs) are noted; incidence is rising.

Conclusions:

• The review synthesizes current knowledge on microscopic colitis definition, subtypes, epidemiology, and etiology.
• Treatment efficacy is largely based on limited trials and anecdotal evidence, with budesonide being a primary option.
• Further epidemiological research and established long-term follow-up protocols are needed.