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Investigations

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

The investigations in a patient with toxic megacolon should include:

  • electolytes:
    • dehydration and hypokalaemia are common

  • full blood count:
    • anaemia is common due to bleeding
    • a raised white cell count is usual, except in AIDS

  • inflammatory markers:
    • the ESR and CRP are usually raised

  • hypoalbuminaemia is common

Abdominal radiography reveals the size of dilated bowel and should be performed daily in sick patients.

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