Re: Necrosis of the Colon

Posted By Joy on June 09, 1999 at 14:41:21
Hello -
Last year my mother who is 54 years old was brought to the Emergency room with severe stomach pains, and it turned out that her entire colon was necrotic. She had most of it removed and was given a temporary illeostomy, which was taken down 3 months after the first surgery. She is doing well now, but my question is what specifically causes necrosis of the colon?? Her doctors were baffled by what happened. Originally the surgeion thought that she had some sort of a vasculitis, but she didnt. They asked if if she had eaten any raw meat or anything unusual (she didnt) one doctor suggested that it was caused by over the counter sinus medications! The surgeon said he only knew of this happening to elderly patients that are on heart medications etc. Before this happened my mother had stomach pains off and on, and was diagnosed with IBS. I know that necrosis is caused by lack of blood flow, but has anyone heard of this happening to the colon? Please help!!
thank you,
Joy

[HFHSM.D.-rf]

Posted By HFHSM.D.-Gastro-RF on July 06, 1999 at 20:19:43
Dear Joy,
You are correct that a reduction in blood flow to the intestine caused the necrosis.  You are also correct that colon necrosis is much less common than small intestinal necrosis.
Vasculiitis can cause necrosis.  Blockage of arteries or veins supplying the colon, by emboli or clot, can cause this problem.  Certain medications as well as illicit drugs e.g. cocaine can cause ischemia.  Obstruction of the colon or volvulus (twisting of the colon on itself) can compromise the blood supply and cause necrosis.
This information is presented for educational purposes.  Ask specific questions to your personal physician.
HFHSM.D.-Gastro-RF
*keywords: colon ischemia
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Follow Ups:

[msq89]

A related discussion, necrotic colon was started.

[cazex3]

My necrosis of the colon was caused by the medicine Zelnorm', prescribed for IBS... terrible abdomen discomfort.