Chapter 60 Ulcerative Colitis
INTRODUCTION
Description: Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by an inflammation limited to the mucosa of the large bowel and found primarily in the descending colon and rectum (although the entire colon may be involved). The disease is characterized by intermittent bouts of symptoms interspersed by periods of quiescence.
Predominant Age: 20 to 50 years, 20% of patients are younger than 21. (Usually starts between the ages of 15 and 30, and less frequently between 50 and 70 years of age).
ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS
Causes: An inflammatory process limited to the mucosa of the large bowel and found primarily in the descending colon and rectum, although the entire colon may be involved. Genetic, infectious, immunologic, and psychologic factors have been postulated to underlie the process.
CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS
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