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Toxic Megacolon
Alternate Names : Megarectum, Toxic Dilation of the Colon
Definition Toxic megacolon is a life-threatening complication of other intestinal conditions, characterized by a very dilated colon, abdominal distention, and sometimes fever, abdominal pain, or shock.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
This is a complication of inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, and some infections of the colon. Other forms of megacolon exist and can be congenital (from birth) or associated with some forms of constipation.
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• Definition
• Toxic Megacolon Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Toxic Megacolon Symptoms & Signs
• Toxic Megacolon Prevention
• Toxic Megacolon Diagnosis & Tests
• Toxic Megacolon Treatment
• Toxic Megacolon Prognosis
• Toxic Megacolon Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
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Review Date : 2/15/2002
Reviewed By : Jenifer K. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, and Elizabeth Hait, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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