Toxic megacolon

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Crohn's disease - affected areas	Digestive system	Digestive system organs	Toxic megacolon
Ulcerative colitis

Toxic dilation of the colon; Megarectum

• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal distention
• Abdominal tenderness
• Fever
• Rapid heart rate
• Dehydration

There may be signs of septic shock. The doctor will notice abdominal tenderness and possible loss of bowel sounds.

• An abdominal film shows colonic dilation.
• A CBC may show an elevated white blood cell count.
• Blood electrolytes may show a low potassium level or signs of dehydration.

Review Date: 01/23/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.