Collagenous colitis is a form of microscopic colitis that leads to chronic, watery diarrhea. It develops when a thin band of collagen (a natural protein) builds up just beneath the surface of the colon lining. Because the colon often looks normal during a routine scope, doctors take small tissue samples (biopsies) and examine them under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
Symptoms can vary but most people experience persistent digestive issues such as:
The exact cause of collagenous colitis is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:
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The ICD-10 code for collagenous colitis is K52.83.
While collagenous colitis can be disruptive due to chronic diarrhea, most people experience significant improvement with the right treatment plan.
Collagenous colitis is less common than many other digestive disorders, but it affects more individuals than is often recognized.
Collagenous colitis is not definitively classified as autoimmune, though immune system dysfunction appears to play a role in its development.
Diagnosis requires a colonoscopy with biopsy. A tissue sample is examined under a microscope to identify a thickened collagen band beneath the surface of the colon lining.
The biopsy typically reveals a layer of collagen just under the colon's surface along with signs of inflammation in the tissue.
Yes. Many patients find symptom relief by following low-fat, dairy-free, or gluten-free diets based on individual triggers.
With proper treatment, most people do well over the long term. Without treatment, chronic diarrhea can lead to dehydration and unintentional weight loss.
You should seek medical evaluation if you experience persistent watery diarrhea lasting more than a few days or if you have concerning symptoms like weight loss or severe abdominal pain.
Yes. Many patients achieve remission of symptoms through appropriate medical treatment and dietary adjustments.
