Toxic Megacolon

Question 1

What is the defn of “toxic megacolon”?

Answer 1

infx colitis characterized by total or segmental non-obstructive colonic dilation + systemic toxicity
potentially lethal complication of inflammatory bowel ds

Question 2

What are the clinical features of toxic megacolon?

Answer 2

sev bloody diarrhoea
toxic pt - altered mental state, tachycardia, fever, postural HT, lower abd distention + tenderness +/- localized/generalized peritonitis

Question 3

What is the dx criteria for toxic megacolon?

Answer 3

Radiologic evidence of colonic distention + >/= 3 of the following:
fever >38
HR >120bpm
Neutrophil >10500/microL
Anaemia
+ at least one of the following: dehydration, altered mental state, electrolyte disturbance, hypotension