COLITIS

COLITIS

There are two types of colitides: IBD (discussed in Chapter 75 ) and non-IBD. The non-IBD causes can be grouped into infec - tive and non-infective causes, with infective being by far the - most common. The majority of non-IBD colitides present acutely with severity ranging from a self-limiting illness to severe disease necessitating emergency colectomy . A careful history of acute onset and potential predisposing factors, including the use of antibiotics, is often key . Investiga - - tions include stool culture, serology and inflammatory mark - ers. Supine abdominal radiographs may demonstrate bowel oedema, colonic distension or, in severe cases, gas in the bowel wall. CT may determine the extent of disease , presence of - alternative pathology or resultant complications. In a deterio - rating patient awaiting cultures, endoscopic biopsies may also be helpful.