Related Experiment Videos
Microscopic colitis: a histopathological study of nine cases
P Jayalakshmi1, A K Malik, N W Wong
1Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur.
The Malaysian Journal of Pathology
|December 1, 1994
Summary
This study identified microscopic colitis (MC) in Malaysian patients presenting with chronic diarrhea. Histological analysis revealed specific inflammatory patterns, suggesting MC is underdiagnosed.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Histopathology
- Colorectal Diseases
Background:
- Microscopic colitis (MC) is an inflammatory bowel condition.
- Diagnosis often relies on histological examination of colonic biopsies.
- MC can be a cause of chronic diarrhea.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first documented cases of microscopic colitis in Malaysia.
- To characterize the clinical and histological features of MC in a Malaysian cohort.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing MC to avoid misdiagnosis of nonspecific colitis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective histological analysis of colonic biopsies.
- Review of patient data from the University of Malaya Pathology Department (1990-1993).
- Evaluation of clinical symptoms, patient demographics, and endoscopic findings.
Main Results:
- Nine cases of microscopic colitis were identified over a 4-year period.
- Patients ranged from 18-53 years, with a female predominance (3.5:1 ratio).
- Common symptom was chronic diarrhea; colonoscopy and barium enema were normal, but biopsies showed plasmacytic infiltration and intraepithelial lymphocytes.
Conclusions:
- This study represents the first report of microscopic colitis in Malaysia.
- Histopathological recognition of MC is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Improved awareness can reduce cases diagnosed as nonspecific colitis.