Characteristics of Ulcerative Colitis Under Colonoscopy

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum. During a colonoscopic examination, several distinct features can help identify and diagnose this condition.

One of the key observations during colonoscopy is the loss or significant blurring of the normal vascular pattern in the intestinal mucosa. The mucosa often appears reddened due to congestion and swelling, and it may be covered with mucus or blood. In many cases, erosions and ulcers are clearly visible, indicating active inflammation.

Another notable feature is the presence of pseudopolyps and mucosal bridges, which form as a result of mucosal damage and subsequent healing processes. These structures are commonly seen in patients with long-standing ulcerative colitis and serve as important markers for the disease.

As the condition progresses, the haustra (pouch-like segments of the colon) may become shallower or even disappear entirely. In more advanced stages, deep ulcers and prominent hyperplastic polyps may also be observed.

It's important to note that ulcerative colitis typically presents as a continuous lesion, meaning the inflammation spreads uniformly throughout the affected areas without skipping sections. This continuity helps differentiate it from other inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease.

In summary, colonoscopic findings such as mucosal changes, formation of pseudopolyps, and structural alterations in the colon play a crucial role in diagnosing ulcerative colitis. These visual indicators, when combined with clinical symptoms and laboratory results, support accurate diagnosis and effective management of the disease.