[Ischemic colitis: a descriptive analysis in a Madrid hospital]

Ischaemic colitis represents the most common form of intestinal ischaemia and involves more commonly elderly patients with a variety of underlying conditions. This study analyses the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of the disease in our environment.

The IC cases occurred at our institution during the last two years were studied. Twenty-eight cases of IC obtained by reviewing colonoscopy and pathological records were analyzed.

The non-occlusive type is the most common presentation form of IC. It affected elderly patients (74 +/- 10 years) with cardiovascular risk factors. Most cases manifested with abdominal pain (68%). In 64% cases, colonoscopy showed ulcerations, located mainly at descending colon and rectosigmoid. The clinical course was generally favourable with conservative measures. The overall mortality rate was 10%.

The possibility of IC should be considered in the differential diagnosis of elderly patient with abdominal pain and cardiovascular risk factors.