Definition:
Lymphocytic colitis a rare condition characterized by chronic non-bloody watery diarrhea. It is a subtype of miscroscopic colitis.
Diagnosis:
The most accurate test in diagnosing lymphocytic colitis is through direct visualization or sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. Barium enemais also used to detect the disease.
Treatment:
The most common and easiest ways of treating lymphocytic colitis are through administration of over-the-counter antidiarrhea drugs and anti-inflammatory drugs such as salicylates. Lymphotic colitis respond well to mesalazine and collagenous colitis to budesonide (Fernandez- Bañares F, Salas A, Esteve M, Espinós J, Forné M, Viver J (2003). "Collagenous and lymphocytic colitis. evaluation of clinical and histological features, response to treatment, and long-term follow-up.". Am J Gastroenterol 98 (2): 340-7).
Symptoms and Signs:
Common symptoms include chronic watery, but non bloody diarrhea which may be continuous or episodic, and abdominal pain or cramps.
Causes:
Long term use and medications of NSAIDs, antidepressant and other drugs including overactive immune responses are the common factors considered in tracing the cause of lymphocytic colitis.
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