Toxic megacolon : Symptoms, Diagnosis & Tests (Toxic dilation of the colon, Megarectum)

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You are here : AllRefer.com > Health > Diseases & Conditions > Toxic megacolon : Symptoms, Diagnosis & Tests

Toxic megacolon

Alternate Names : Toxic dilation of the colon, Megarectum

Symptoms & Signs

The rapid widening of the colon may cause the following symptoms:

Abdominal pain
Abdominal distention
Abdominal tenderness
Fever
Rapid heart rate
Shock

Diagnosis & Tests

The rapid widening (dilation) of the colon makes this different from other conditions, such as chronic constipation, that can widen the colon slowly and do not cause sudden, life-threatening symptoms.

A physical exam may reveal signs of septic shock. The doctor will notice tenderness in the abdomen and possible loss of bowel sounds.

Tests:

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Toxic megacolon : Definition
Toxic megacolon : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Toxic megacolon : Symptoms & Signs
Toxic megacolon : Diagnosis & Tests
Toxic megacolon : Treatment
Toxic megacolon : Prognosis (Expectations)
Toxic megacolon : Complications
Toxic megacolon : Calling Your Health Care Provider
Toxic megacolon : Prevention
Toxic megacolon : References
Toxic megacolon : Pictures & Images
Digestive system
Toxic megacolon
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Digestive system organs

Review Date : 1/20/2010
Reviewed By : Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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