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Megacolon
Toxic megacolon

Toxic megacolon

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Toxic megacolon is a dilation of the colon above 6 cm. It is typically associated with signs of severe illness (such as increased heart rate, fever, etc). It is diagnosed by a thorough assessment by your doctor and abdominal x-rays. It is a serious condition that often requires surgery.

Dr. Kyle Cologne reviewed this

15 year experience in Colon and Rectal Surgery

Is a type of:

Megacolon

How long it usually lasts:

Chronic (lasts years to lifelong)

How common it is:

Rare

Body locations

Lower abdomen, Upper abdomen

Symptoms

Abdominal pain
Fever
Diarrhea
Low blood pressure
Decreased mental status
Load more

Medications

Ratings show how effective doctors think these medications are at treating Toxic megacolon
Vancomycin
2.4
5 reviews
Steroids

Other treatments

Supportive care

Tests

Stool studies
Blood culture
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
C reactive protein
Arterial blood gas
Load more

Related questions

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What is the definition or description of: toxic megacolon?

2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in

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Can megacolon be rule out definitely by abdominal X-ray

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