Infectious colitis

Question 1

Define infectious colitis

Answer 1

Inflammation of the colon due to bacteria, parasites or viruses

Question 2

Aetiology of infectious colitis

Answer 2

Infection leads to inflammation of the colon

Question 3

Risk factors for infectious colitis

3

Answer 3

Lack of sanitation
Drinking contaminated water
Antibiotic use

Question 4

Epidemiology of infectious colitis

Answer 4

Quite COMMON

Question 5

Presenting symptoms & signs of infectious colitis

5

Answer 5

Diarrhoea
Blood & mucus in stool
Lower abdominal pain
Malaise
Low grade fever

Question 6

Investigations for infectious colitis

2

Answer 6

Diagnosis largely clinical

Stool culture may be used to identify causative organism