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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffCollagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are inflammatory conditions of the colon that cause chronic, nonbloody, watery diarrhea. Some researchers believe that collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are different phases of the same condition rather than separate conditions.
Both collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are sometimes referred to collectively as microscopic colitis — because the diagnosis is confirmed by microscopic examination. Collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are more prevalent in older adults. Collagenous colitis is more common in women than in men.
Treatment involves a phased approach, likely beginning with lifestyle changes. In many cases, adjusting your diet will be enough to resolve your symptoms. If not, your doctor can suggest a number of effective medications for collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis. In rare cases, surgery is necessary.
- Collagenous Colitis and Lymphocytic Colitis. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/collagenouscolitis/. Accessed Aug. 12, 2008.
- Collagenous Colitis and Lymphocytic Colitis. Merck Manual. http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec09/ch126/ch126d.html. Accessed Aug. 12, 2008.
- Dietrich CF. Lymphocytic and collagenous colitis (microscopic colitis). http://www.uptodate.com/patients/content/topic.do?topicKey=inflambd/5666. Accessed Aug. 12, 2008.
- Wall, Geoffrey C. Pharmacotherapy for Microscopic Colitis. Pharmacotherapy. 2007;27(3):425-433.http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/555432_1. Accessed Aug. 12, 2008.
- Colitis: A cause of persistent diarrhea in older adults. Mayo Clinic Health Letter.Vol. 25, No. 3, March 2007.
- Antidiarrheal Medicines: OTC Relief for Diarrhea. American Academy of Family Physicians. http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/otc-center/otc-medicines/855.html#ArticleParsysMiddleColumn0010. Accessed Aug. 12, 2008.
