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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Dec 27, 2025

Deficient Pms2, ERCC1, Ku86, CcOI in Field Defects During Progression to Colon Cancer

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Melanosis coli: A comprehensive review.

Ningning Yang¹, Mengting Ruan¹, Shizhu Jin¹

¹Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.

Gastroenterologia Y Hepatologia

|February 26, 2020

Summary

Melanosis coli (MC), a pigment in the colon, is linked to anthraquinone laxatives. This review clarifies its epidemiology, causes, and diagnosis, emphasizing lifestyle changes for management.

Keywords:

Epidemiology Epidemiología Histopathology Histopatología Melanosis coli Pathogenesis Patogénesis Tratamiento y pronóstico Treatment and prognosis

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Quantification of Colonic Stem Cell Mutations

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Published on: September 25, 2015

Area of Science:

Gastroenterology
Colorectal Health
Pharmacology

Background:

Melanosis coli (MC) presents as a brown/black pigment in the colorectal mucosa.
Its epidemiology and precise etiology remain incompletely understood.
A strong association exists between anthraquinone laxative use and MC development.

Purpose of the Study:

To systematically review and synthesize current knowledge on Melanosis coli.
To elucidate the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical aspects of MC.
To enhance understanding and guide clinical management strategies.

Main Methods:

Comprehensive literature review of studies on Melanosis coli.
Analysis of epidemiological data, etiological factors, and pathogenetic mechanisms.
Evaluation of diagnostic methods and treatment approaches.

Main Results:

Anthraquinone laxatives are significantly correlated with MC occurrence.
The apoptosis theory is the widely accepted pathogenetic mechanism.
Diagnosis relies on endoscopic and histopathological examinations; specific symptoms are absent.

Conclusions:

MC is a reversible condition influenced by lifestyle and bowel habits.
Management primarily involves lifestyle modifications, avoiding unnecessary medical or surgical interventions.
Further research is needed to fully clarify MC's epidemiology and etiology.