What Is Lymphocyctic Colitis

Inflammatory bowel disease is what is usually called Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis. However, there are two types of inflammation that also affect the colon. They are known as Collagenous and Lymphocyctic colitis.

The symptoms are the same as regular colitis including chronic, watery, diarrhea that is not bloody. For many, abdominal cramps may be included. Those with this type can have diarrhea even when they have no symptoms.

The disease is referred to as microscopic colitis, meaning there is no sign of inflammation on the colon’s surface when it is viewed with a colonoscopy. In this case, a biopsy would be called for. The doctor would remove a small piece of tissue from the lining of the intestine to be tested. The causes are unclear. It is thought that bacteria, toxins, or viruses could be responsible. Sometimes it is believed that it stems form an autoimmune response which means that the body’s immune system destroys healthy cells for no good reason.

Collagenous colitis is most often diagnosed in people between the age of 60 to 80, however, some have been diagnosed younger than 45 and even as children. Those with Lymphocytic colitis are most often diagnosed between 60 to 80 and both men and women are affected. Having this disease does not raise the risk of one’s chances for colon cancer.

The disease is often diagnosed with a biopsy. They are examined under a microscope. Collagenous colitis shows a large amount of protein in the colon, while Lymphocyctic shows an increase of white blood cells. Lifestyle changes for either case are implemented. These include reducing fat intake, taking out caffeine and aspirin, and avoiding over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin.

Medications can also be recommended. These include such anti-lamaseries as Mesalamine, otherwise known as Rowasa or Canasa and Sulfaslazine or Azulfidine. Steroids like Budesonide or Entocort and Prednisone can help inflammation, although they are avoided for long-term usage due to bone loss. Anti-diarrhea medications such as Pepto Bismol, Imodium, and others can help for short-term relief. In addition, Immunosuppressive agents like azathioprine or Imuran can help inflammation as well, but are not used as much. In extreme cases, surgery is implemented to remove part or all of the colon. It is not recommended unless medications and diet change do not help.

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