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Ischemic colitis


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Ischemic colitis

Definition:

Ischemic colitis involves an area of inflammation (irritation and swelling) caused by interference with the blood flow to the large intestine.


Alternative Names:
Colonic ischemia
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Interference with blood flow to the colon is the cause of ischemic colitis. The disorder mainly affects people over 50, many of whom have a history of peripheral vascular disease. Other risk factors include:

  • Previous aortic surgery with inadvertent damage to the artery supplying the colon
  • History of stroke
  • Low blood pressure
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Diabetes
  • Abdominal radiation exposure
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