megacolon

Introduction

A condition of extreme dilation of the colon.

Etiology

• congenital (Hirschsprung disease)
• acquired
  • inflammatory bowel disease
  • Chagas disease
  • stimulant laxative abuse
  • pharmaceutical agents
    • nalbuphine (Nubain)

Clinical manifestations

• non-obstructing

More general terms

• intestinal disease
• chronic gastrointestinal disease

More specific terms

• toxic megacolon