Colitis
Colitis refers to inflammation of the large intestine (colon). This inflammation can be caused by infection, reduced blood flow, autoimmune disease, or inflammatory bowel conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Symptoms may range from mild abdominal discomfort to severe pain, diarrhea, and bleeding. Imaging helps identify the extent and pattern of inflammation and detect complications.
What is it?
Colitis occurs when the lining of the colon becomes inflamed. The inflammation may be triggered by infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic), reduced blood flow to the colon (ischemic colitis), autoimmune diseases, or chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Depending on the cause, inflammation can affect a small segment or the entire colon.
Imaging—particularly CT—is used to evaluate the severity and distribution of inflammation, wall thickening, and any complications such as abscesses or perforation. Distinguishing between infectious, ischemic, or inflammatory causes is essential for choosing the right treatment.
Important to Know
Colitis symptoms can overlap across many different conditions, making imaging and lab testing important for determining the correct diagnosis. Mild cases may resolve with hydration and supportive care, while more severe cases may require medication or hospitalization. Chronic types of colitis, such as ulcerative colitis, may require long-term management.
Red flags include severe abdominal pain, high fever, persistent bleeding, dehydration, or signs of shock, all of which require urgent medical evaluation. Follow-up imaging may be needed to track improvement or identify complications.