Ulcerative Colitis Dictionary

pancolitis: Also called universal colitis, pancolitis is a more comprehensive form of ulcerative colitis in that it impacts all portions of the large intestine along with the rectum.

proctocolectomy: A surgical procedure to cure ulcerative colitis and other bowel diseases in which the large intestine and rectal lining are removed and the small intestine is attached to the anus. Also known as a "total colectomy."

proctosigmoiditis: An ulcerative condition that is specific to the short section of sigmoid colon and rectum, which are attached, and involves both with symptoms that include diarrhea and bleeding.

pouchitis: A treatable condition in which the internal pouch created during a continent ileostomy becomes inflamed.

rectal bleeding: Usually mixed with diarrhea, this blood is produced from ulcerations in the colon or in the case of Crohn's disease may also originate in the small intestine.

sacroiliac joints: A joint located in the lower back where the pelvis and spine come together, which contains numerous nerve endings and when painful may be an indication of underlying diseases such as ulcerative colitis.

sed rate: More formally known as "sedimentation rate" or "erythrocyte sedimentation rate," this test is used to diagnose a host of diseases through observing the behavior of red blood cells.

sigmoidoscope: Along with colonoscopes, these are special flexible tubes used to inspect the interior of the rectum and large intestine.

stool specimen: The collection of fecal matter, either in a single event or over the course of several hours or days, for testing that can provide information and diagnosis for many conditions.

systemic anti-inflammatory medications: Includes corticosteriods such as prednisone that are effective in treating inflammation caused by any number of conditions and with long-term use may lead to a host of side effects as well.