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Collagenous and lymphocytic colitis in Iceland
Margret Agnarsdottir1, Olafur Gunnlaugsson, Kjartan B Orvar
1Department of Pathology, University of Iceland, Reykjavik.
Insights
The nationwide incidence of collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis in Iceland is high. Collagenous colitis incidence in Iceland is significantly higher than previously reported globally.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are microscopic forms of colitis.
- Previous data on their incidence, particularly in Iceland, is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the nationwide incidence of collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis in Iceland.
- To investigate the location of histopathological changes in the large bowel for these conditions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of pathology reports from 1995-1999 for suspected cases.
- Reevaluation of all pathology samples using strict diagnostic criteria.
- Calculation of mean annual incidence rates per 100,000 inhabitants.
Main Results:
- 125 patients met diagnostic criteria: 71 with collagenous colitis and 54 with lymphocytic colitis.
- Mean annual incidence: 5.2/100,000 for collagenous colitis (mean age 66.1) and 4.0/100,000 for lymphocytic colitis (mean age 68.7).
- Both conditions predominantly affected the colon over the rectum.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis is notably high in Iceland.
- Iceland's incidence rate for collagenous colitis surpasses previously reported figures worldwide.
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to determine the nationwide incidence of collagenous and lymphocytic colitis in Iceland and the location of histopathological changes in the large bowel. All pathology reports of patients diagnosed with or suspected of having collagenous colitis or lymphocytic colitis in the period 1995-1999 were identified. All pathology samples were reevaluated using strict diagnostic criteria. After reevaluation 125 patients fulfilled our diagnostic criteria, 71 as collagenous colitis and 54 as lymphocytic colitis. The mean annual incidence for collagenous colitis was 5.2/100,000 inhabitants, and the mean age at diagnosis was 66.1 years. The mean annual incidence for lymphocytic colitis was 4.0/100,000 inhabitants, the mean age at diagnosis was 68.7 years. Both diseases more commonly involved the colon than the rectum. The incidence of collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis is high in Iceland. The mean annual incidence of collagenous colitis is much higher in Iceland than hitherto reported elsewhere.