Melanosis coli Flashcards
What is Melanosis coli
Melanosis coli is a finding usually associated with chronic laxative abuse, where colonoscopy reveals the presence of dark brown pigmentation of the macrophages in the lamina propria. It is usually caused by agents that contain Senna and may be reversed on stopping ingestion of these drugs.
Pathophysiology of melanosis coli
Drugs such as Senna become active on reaching the large bowel, where they act to cause necrosis and cell apoptosis, leading to the characteristic changes in colour seen on colonoscopy.
The finding in itself is not dangerous, but careful diagnosis and management of the underlying conditions is essential to prevent further damage to the bowel and to allow regeneration of the cells in the lower gastrointestinal tract.
