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Alternative names Return to top
Toxic dilation of the colon; MegarectumDefinition Return to top
Toxic megacolon is a life-threatening complication of other intestinal conditions. It is characterized by a very inflated colon, abdominal distention, and sometimes fever, abdominal pain, or shock.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
This is a complication of inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, and some infections of the colon. Other forms of megacolon exist and can be congenital (present since birth) or associated with some forms of constipation.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
There may be signs of septic shock. A physical examination reveals abdominal tenderness and possible loss of bowel sounds.
Treatment Return to top
The objective of treatment is to decompress the bowel and to prevent swallowed air from further distending the bowel. If decompression is not achieved or the patient does not improve within 24 hours, a colectomy (surgical removal of all or part of the colon) is indicated.
Fluid and electrolyte replacement help to prevent dehydration and shock.
Use of corticosteroids may be indicated to suppress the inflammatory reaction in the colon if megacolon has resulted from active inflammatory bowel disease. Antibiotics may be given to prevent sepsis (a severe infection).
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
If the condition does not improve, there is a significant risk of death. In this situation, a colectomy is usually required.
Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if severe abdominal pain develops -- particularly if it is accompanied by fever, rapid heart rate, tenderness when the abdomen is pressed, bloody diarrhea, frequent diarrhea, or painful bowel movements.
Prevention Return to top
Treatment of the underlying disease is important in preventing toxic megacolon.
Update Date: 1/26/2004 Updated by: Sreeni Jonnalagadda, M.D., Interventional and Pancreatobiliary Endoscopy, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |