Tests for Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a disease affecting the lining of the colon and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers. The colon develops ulcers where cells have been destroyed by inflammation. These ulcers bleed and contain pus, and inflammation will cause the colon to empty faster, resulting in diarrhea. There is no cure for ulcerative colitis, but therapies are available to control symptoms. Several tests will need to be administered to confirm diagnosis.

Blood Tests and Stool Samples

• Blood tests will be performed to rule out infection or anemia. Blood tests also check for certain antibodies, which can help in diagnosing what kind of inflammatory disease you have, but they cannot confirm the diagnosis conclusively. A stool sample will rule out disorders caused by bacteria or a virus. The sample may show white blood cells indicative of inflammatory bowel disease.

Colonoscopy

• In a colonoscopy, your doctor will insert a long, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end of it called an endoscope into your anus and up into the colon. This scope is attached to a computer and monitor, and your doctor will detect inflammation, ulcers and bleeding inside the colon wall. He may also take a tissue sample from the colon wall to biopsy. A biopsy may be able to confirm diagnosis.

Barium Enema

• A barium enema test is normally performed when a colonoscopy cannot be. In this procedure, a barium contrast dye is placed into your colon through an enema. The barium dye then creates a highlighted image of your colon, rectum and a small part of your small intestine on an X-ray. Your doctor can then evaluate the condition your colon is in.

X-ray and CT Scan

• An X-ray will show any perforations in the colon wall. A CT scan of your stomach and pelvis will provide information for your doctor if he suspects there could be inflammation in the small intestine, suggesting Crohn's disease.

Treatment

• Drug therapy is normally the first line of treatment for ulcerative colitis. Azulfidine reduces inflammation and symptoms of ulcerative colitis, but it has side effects of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and headache. Do not take this drug if you are allergic to sulpha medications. Asacol, Rowasa and Dipentum are taken in tablet form or as enemas, depending on which area of the colon is affected. These medications have less side effects than Azulfidine and may be used separately or in combination with each other or in a combination of forms such as tablet along with an enema. For moderate to severe colitis, corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation. These drugs are used for short-term use only because of severe side effects.

  Surgery may be an option when other treatments do not work, but your entire colon would need to be removed and you would be fitted with a bag to collect your stool. The procedure is quite involved, and some people may not feel comfortable with this type of procedure. You and your doctor will be able to come to a treatment option best suited for you.