Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Colitis is the inflammation of the inner lining of the colon, often causing pain and diarrhea. It can result from infections, inflammatory bowel disease, or other causes.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Colitis can be caused by bacterial infections such as Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) and Salmonella.
Symptoms often include abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, and sometimes fever.
Diagnosis is typically made through stool tests, colonoscopy, and imaging studies.
Treatment depends on the cause but may include antibiotics for bacterial infections or anti-inflammatory medications for chronic conditions.
The normal microbiota of the digestive system plays a crucial role in preventing colitis by outcompeting pathogenic bacteria.
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Related terms
Clostridioides difficile (C. diff): A bacterium that can cause severe colitis and diarrhea.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): A group of disorders including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis characterized by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.