Ulcerative Colitis

Risks

Even with the best treatment, complications of ulcerative colitis can occur. In some people with severe disease, the colon may dilate and rupture (megacolon). Although megacolon is rare, it usually requires emergency removal of the colon. Other people may develop anemia or osteoporosis, both of which can be treated.

The most serious risk associated with ulcerative colitis is colorectal cancer. Your own risk depends on how much of your colon is involved and how long you've had the disease. People whose colitis is confined to the rectum don't appear to be at increased risk of cancer. But the risk is higher if you have more colon involvement or have had the disease for eight years or more. If you have left-sided colitis, your risk increases after having the disease for 10 to 15 years.

You and your Mayo Clinic doctor will discuss whether you need a cancer surveillance program, which usually means having a colonoscopy every one to two years. Mayo physicians use leading-edge techniques to screen for cancer, including chromoendoscopy, which uses a spray dye to highlight abnormal tissue changes that might not otherwise be seen.