Microscopic Colitis

Overview

Microscopic colitis is a chronic, inflammatory condition of the large intestine (colon) that causes watery diarrhea and, sometimes, abdominal pain. There are two types:

• Lymphocytic colitis. Tissue samples show an increase of white blood cells (lymphocytes).
• Collagenous colitis. Tissue samples show an increase of white blood cells and a thick layer of protein (collagen).

The disorder gets its name from the fact that microscopic examination of tissue is required to identify it.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Experience. Mayo Clinic has significant experience in treating inflammatory bowel diseases, including microscopic colitis.
• Pathology expertise. Mayo Clinic tissue analysis specialists (pathologists) are expert at identifying microscopic colitis, critical to receiving the right treatment.
• Tough cases. Mayo Clinic specialists are good at helping people who don't respond to standard therapies for microscopic colitis. They can sort out other possible causes (such as celiac disease) and try different approaches.
• Research. Mayo clinician-researchers are active in research to better understand this disease and test new therapies.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for digestive disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked among the Best Hospitals for digestive disorders by U.S. News & World Report.

Read more about microscopic colitis at MayoClinic.com.