Medical History and Physical Examination
The first step in diagnosing ulcerative colitis is taking a detailed medical history. The healthcare professional will ask about your symptoms, family history of digestive disorders, and any previous abdominal surgeries or illnesses. After the medical history, a physical examination will be conducted. The healthcare professional may palpate your abdomen and listen to your bowel sounds. They will also check for signs of inflammation, such as tenderness or swollen joints. Based on the medical history and physical examination, the healthcare professional may suspect ulcerative colitis and proceed to further diagnostic tests.
Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests play a crucial role in diagnosing ulcerative colitis. The healthcare professional may request blood tests to check for signs of inflammation, such as elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Stool samples may also be collected to analyze for the presence of blood, infection, or parasites. Fecal calprotectin, a protein associated with inflammation, can also be measured. In some cases, additional laboratory tests, such as liver function tests and kidney function tests, may be conducted to evaluate the overall health and identify any complications.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests can provide valuable insights into the condition of the colon and rectum. One commonly used imaging test is a colonoscopy, where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum to examine the colon. During the procedure, the healthcare professional can take biopsies from the colon lining for further analysis. An upper endoscopy may also be performed to check for inflammation in the upper digestive tract, especially if there are symptoms such as persistent vomiting or difficulty swallowing. Other imaging tests, such as computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be recommended to evaluate the extent and severity of inflammation and identify any complications.
Other Diagnostic Techniques
In cases where the diagnosis is still uncertain, additional diagnostic techniques may be used. These include capsule endoscopy, where a small camera is swallowed to capture images of the digestive tract, and double-balloon enteroscopy, which allows examination of the small intestine. In some situations, an X-ray of the abdomen may be performed to look for signs of complications like bowel obstruction or perforation. Genetic testing and serologic testing for certain antibodies may also be done to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.