Microscopic colitis takes two forms: collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis. Collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are two types of bowel inflammation that affect the colon (large intestine). They are not related to Crohns disease or ulcerative colitis, which are more severe forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are referred to as microscopic colitis because colonoscopy usually shows no signs of inflammation on the surface of the colon. Instead, tissue samples from the colon must be examined under a microscope to make the diagnosis.
The cause of Microscopic colitis is currently unknown. One theory is that the use of non-steroidal-anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) may contribute to the development of Microscopic colitis. Another theory is that Microscopic colitis is caused by an autoimmune response, where the body’s immune system attacks other tissues in the body.
It is also thought that bacteria or viruses may play a role in the development of Microscopic colitis, but the exact relationship is unknown.
OTHER RELATED INFORMATION
