Ischemic Colitis
Alternate Names : Acute Interstitial Ischemia
DefinitionIschemic colitis involves an area of inflammation (irritation and swelling with presence of extra immune cells) caused by interference with the blood flow to the large intestine.
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Overview, Causes, & 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, or diabetes; and abdominal radiation exposure.
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