ULCERATIVE COLITIS Introduction This research re

Definition, Epidemiology, & Etiology

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), distinguishable from Chrone's disease (CD), both are the two main types of inflammatory bowel diseases. UC is a chronic condition that includes damage to the gastrointestinal tract and can cause damage to other systems, including skin lesions, joint inflammation, and liver disease (4:57, 5:858).

Causes of UC are not fully understood. It is presumed that pathogenesis may include genetic predisposing factors, biologically internal and external considerations, and modifying elements. Studies with monozygotic twins demonstrate genetically altered mucosal production. Studies also show that children of parents with IBD are at high risk for the disease; early disease presentation is found in those with a family history of IBD (5:858-10).

Other possible predisposing factors for IBD may include deficiencies and abnormalities in the intestinal mucus layer and abnormalities of the mucus glycoproteins. For example, in UC, particular autoantibodies are present. UC pati

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States (7:371). UC can impair physical, emotional, and psychological functioning which can impact all areas of a patient's life, including personal relationships, employment, and social functioning (5:858). Continuous flarups of UC symptoms lead to increased psychosocial and physical needs. Chronic illness is debilitating, as is the process and outcome of any surgical procedure. Most patients report that they fail to reach their full working potential, and they tend to hide their illness from employers due to fear of discrimination. Impact on education appears to be less dramatic; IBD is prevalent among school children (33 per 100,000), and results in poor attendance, however, educational outcomes seem to be within the normal range (6:1013-4). Social fears develop as patients fear diarrhea or incontinence during social activities. UC patients need to avoid certain foods and tend to spend their time determining the location of the nearest toilet facility. Impacts of UC on personal relationships can be even more devastating. Sexual activity is avoided and patterns of dependent behavior with oversensitivity are found. Inadequate medical care and social support lead to exacerbation of functional debilitation and increased n
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Approximate Pages = 7 (250 words per page)