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Review of the Microscopic Colitides

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Abstract

Microscopic colitis is a common cause of chronic diarrhea in predominantly older adults. Incidence rates of microscopic colitis (including lymphocytic and collagenous colitis) have increased over time to levels comparable to other forms of inflammatory bowel disease. The possibility of drug-induced microscopic colitis is an important consideration when evaluating these patients, although this concept requires further investigation. There are few controlled treatment trials in microscopic colitis, with much of the data on treatment coming from retrospective studies. In patients with microscopic colitis, a systematic approach to therapy often leads to satisfactory control of symptoms. In this review, we will provide an updated assessment of the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of microscopic colitis.

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Disclosure

Eugene F. Yen has received funding for research from Procter and Gamble, and honoraria from Salix Pharmaceuticals, and UCB; Darrell S. Pardi served as a consultant for Salix pharmaceuticals and Abbott, and has received funding for research from Procter and Gamble, Salix Pharmaceuticals, Merck, and Centocor.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Gastroenterology, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, NorthShore University HealthSystem, 2650 Ridge Avenue, Suite G221, Evanston, IL, 60201, USA

    Eugene F. Yen

  2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinic, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA

    Darrell S. Pardi

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  1. Eugene F. Yen
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  2. Darrell S. Pardi
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Correspondence to Eugene F. Yen.

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Yen, E.F., Pardi, D.S. Review of the Microscopic Colitides. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 13, 458–464 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-011-0207-7

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