Ischemic colitis

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Digestive system

Digestive system organs

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

Colonic ischemia

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 unintentional damage to the artery supplying the colon
• History of stroke
• Low blood pressure
• Congestive heart failure 
• Diabetes  
• Abdominal radiation exposure

Review Date: 05/04/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.