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Indeterminate Colitis
Indeterminate colitis blends characteristics of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, making diagnosis challenging. In Houston, Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs provides personalized care-from precise diagnostics to targeted treatments-to ease symptoms and improve quality of life for patients with this bowel condition.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Indeterminate Colitis?
Indeterminate colitis is an inflammatory bowel condition that shows features of both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. It's diagnosed when biopsy and imaging findings don't clearly fit one diagnosis. The ICD-10 code for this condition is K52.8.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Family history of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
An abnormal immune response attacking intestinal tissue
Environmental triggers such as stress or smoking
Dietary factors-certain foods may exacerbate inflammation
Typical onset between ages 15 and 40
Potential influences from local climate and food habits in Houston
Signs and Symptoms
Frequent diarrhea, often with blood or mucus
Abdominal pain or cramping
Fatigue and unintended weight loss
Low-grade fever during flare-ups
Urgency or a feeling of incomplete evacuation
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your family history, lifestyle factors, smoking status and details about your epigastric pain, bowel habits and any extra-intestinal symptoms.
Blood Tests
Comprehensive panels check for inflammation markers (CRP, ESR), anemia, electrolyte imbalances and nutritional deficiencies.
Stool Tests
Stool analysis rules out infectious causes and measures fecal calprotectin or lactoferrin to gauge gut inflammation.
Endoscopic Evaluation
A colonoscopy with targeted biopsies examines mucosal patterns, ulcerations or granulomas to differentiate indeterminate colitis from Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Imaging Studies
CT enterography or MR enterography visualizes bowel wall thickness, strictures and extra-intestinal inflammation.
Abdominal ultrasound may be used for initial assessment of bowel wall changes.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Capsule endoscopy or small-bowel follow-through can further evaluate the small intestine when standard imaging is inconclusive.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for indeterminate colitis.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Low-fiber diet during flare-ups to ease bowel irritation
Smaller, more frequent meals to reduce cramping
Hydration strategies to replace lost fluids and electrolytes
Stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation
2. Medications
Aminosalicylates or short-term steroids to control inflammation
Immune-modifying therapies for moderate to severe symptoms
Antibiotics when stool tests indicate infection
3. Procedures and Nutritional Support
Endoscopic dilation for narrowed segments of intestine
Surgical consultation in rare, refractory cases
Specialized nutrition support for those with absorption issues
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for indeterminate colitis?
The ICD-10 code for indeterminate colitis is K52.8.
How is indeterminate colitis different from ulcerative colitis?
Indeterminate colitis has features of both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and test results don't clearly match either condition alone.
Is indeterminate colitis a serious condition?
It can be serious if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment with Dr. Scott help manage symptoms and reduce complications.
Can dietary changes help manage symptoms?
Yes. Certain foods may trigger or ease symptoms. Dr. Scott will work with you to create a personalized meal plan.
What tests are used to confirm indeterminate colitis?
Diagnosis may involve blood tests, stool studies, colonoscopy with biopsy, and imaging such as CT or MRI scans.
When will I start feeling better after treatment begins?
Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks of starting treatment, but the timeline varies by individual and symptom severity.
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