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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Pseudomelanosis coli
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/ Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Pseudomelanosis coli
by Charlotteof, May 30, 2007 12:00AM
I have Celiac Disease and recently had a colonoscopy to rule out microscopic colitis. Results were negative for micro. colitis but there was evidence of pseudomelanosis coli. The only laxative I've taken for years is occasional Milk of Magnesia. Are there other causes of pseudomelanosis coli, and is this sort of finding connected to an increased risk of colon cancer?
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, May 31, 2007 12:00AM
, May 31, 2007 12:00AM
I am not aware of other causes other than laxative use.
Early studies suggested an association with colon cancer, but more recent studies have failed to prove this association.
Normally, stopping the laxative will cause this finding to resolve over time.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
Early studies suggested an association with colon cancer, but more recent studies have failed to prove this association.
Normally, stopping the laxative will cause this finding to resolve over time.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
Member Comments
by gabinell, Sep 23, 2008 01:49AM
A related discussion, Colitis and pseudomelanosis was started.
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