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Pathogenesis

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Dilatation of the colon occurs when the inflammatory process escapes from the mucosa into the underlying smooth muscle layer resulting in paralysis. Over-production of nitric oxide by inflammatory cells may play a role in the dilatation.

Surgical specimens show patchy ulceration and necrosis of the bowel wall. Perforation is the feared complication of toxic megacolon.

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