How Ulcerative Colitis is Diagnosed
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by inflammation in the lining of the colon and rectum. Diagnosing UC accurately is crucial for effective management and treatment. The process involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and diagnostic imaging to confirm the presence of the disease and assess its severity. This article outlines how ulcerative colitis is diagnosed along with the standard steps and methods that are used. Initial Assessment The diagnosis of ulcerative colitis typically begins with a detailed medical history and a physical examination. Patients often report symptoms such as prolonged diarrhea, blood…