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Endocrinology9 papers

Acquired megacolon

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Acquired megacolon refers to a condition characterized by a dilated colon without an identifiable mechanical obstruction, often associated with altered colonic motility and function 1.

Diagnosis

  • Endoscopic examination to identify mucosal changes 1
  • Imaging studies (e.g., CT, MRI) to assess colonic dilation and exclude mechanical obstruction 1
  • Exclusion of secondary causes through laboratory tests and biopsy if necessary 1

    • Management

  • Conservative management including bowel rest, hydration, and electrolyte correction 1
  • Use of prokinetic agents such as erythromycin or metoclopramide to enhance colonic motility 1
  • In refractory cases, consider surgical interventions like subtotal colectomy 1

    • Special Populations

  • No specific guidance provided for pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities in the given abstracts 1

    • Key Recommendations

  • Perform endoscopic evaluation to assess mucosal characteristics and exclude neoplastic processes (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1
  • Utilize imaging to confirm colonic dilation and rule out mechanical obstruction before initiating treatment (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1
  • Initiate conservative management with bowel rest and prokinetic agents for motility enhancement (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1

    • References

    1 Lindop GB. Enterochromaffin cell hyperplasia and megacolon: report of a case. Gut 1983. link 2 Mann RA. Acquired flatfoot in adults. Clinical orthopaedics and related research 1983. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Enterochromaffin cell hyperplasia and megacolon: report of a case. — Lindop GB Gut (1983)
    2. [2]
      Acquired flatfoot in adults. — Mann RA Clinical orthopaedics and related research (1983)
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