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Collagenous colitis: an association with fecal leukocytes
J M Lawson1, J Wolosin, M D Mottet
1Department of Internal Medicine (Gastroenterology Division), Naval Hospital, Portsmouth, VA 23708.
Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology
|December 1, 1988
Summary
Collagenous colitis, a colon disorder causing watery diarrhea, often presents with normal colon appearance. The study highlights the diagnostic significance of finding acute inflammatory cells in stool for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Collagenous colitis is characterized by watery diarrhea.
- It features a subepithelial collagen band and inflammatory infiltrate.
- Endoscopic findings are often minimal or normal.
Observation:
- Four cases of collagenous colitis revealed a significant presence of acute inflammatory cells in stool.
- This finding of fecal leukocytes in collagenous colitis is not widely recognized.
- Normal colon appearance and potential for nondiagnostic biopsies complicate early diagnosis.
Findings:
- Acute inflammatory cells in stool are a notable indicator in collagenous colitis.
- The presence of fecal leukocytes can aid in diagnosing this condition.
- This contrasts with typical presentations where colon biopsies may be inconclusive.
Implications:
- Collagenous colitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of diarrhea with fecal leukocytes.
- Increased awareness of fecal leukocytes can improve diagnostic accuracy.
- This may lead to earlier identification and management of collagenous colitis.