UTHSC PA Program Podcast

Gastrointestinal - Toxic Megacolon


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In this episode, we tackle toxic megacolon, a life-threatening complication of severe colonic inflammation most commonly associated with ulcerative colitis and Clostridioides difficile infection. We review the pathophysiology of nitric oxide–mediated colonic paralysis, hallmark clinical features of systemic toxicity, and the critical imaging findings of colonic dilation ≥6 cm. The discussion emphasizes early recognition, ICU-level management, appropriate antimicrobial and corticosteroid therapy, and clear surgical indications.

References

1) Bushardt RL, Colomb-Lippa DM, Klinger AM, Reed H. The JAAPA QRS Review for PAs: Study Plan and Guide for PANCE and PANRE. 1st ed. LWW; 2021. ISBN: 9781975143817.

2) Sheth SG, LaMont JT. Toxic megacolon. The Lancet. 1998;351(9101):509-513. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(97)10475-5

3) Ausch C, Madoff RD, Gnant M, et al. Aetiology and surgical management of toxic megacolon. Colorectal Disease. 2006;8(3):195-201. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1463-1318.2005.00887.x

4) Tapani MJ, Olavi KH. Surgical Management of Toxic Megacolon. Hepatogastroenterology. 2014 May;61(131):638-41. PMID: 26176049

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UTHSC PA Program PodcastBy Kristopher Maday, PA-C, DFAAPA