Collagenous colitis/lymphocytic colitis

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Introduction Signs and symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Screening and diagnosis Complications Treatment Prevention

Introduction

Collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are inflammatory conditions of the colon that cause chronic watery diarrhea as the most common symptom. Some researchers believe that collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are different phases of the same condition rather than two separate conditions.

In some people, the inflammation tends to occur in patches along the lining of the colon. In other people, it's present along the entire length of the bowel.

Collagenous colitis is so named because of the thickened layer of connective tissue (collagen) in the colon's lining. Lymphocytic colitis gets its name because of the increased level of specialized white blood cells (lymphocytes) found in the colon.

Both collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are sometimes referred to collectively as "microscopic colitis" — because the diagnosis is confirmed by microscopic examination of the colon's cells. They're rare — occurring much less commonly than other, better known gastrointestinal diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are more prevalent in older adults, ages 60 to 80 years.

Treatment involves a phased approach beginning with lifestyle changes and progressing to medications and (rarely) surgery if necessary.

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Signs and symptoms