Pediatric Microscopic Colitis

Ranked among the top pediatric gastroenterology programs in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report, the team at Children's Health℠ provides comprehensive, personalized care for every child. We use the latest diagnostic techniques to find the cause of your child’s microscopic colitis and develop a treatment plan to help their large intestine heal. At Children’s Health, your child will get relief from their symptoms and a cure for their colitis.

What is pediatric microscopic colitis?

Microscopic colitis is a type of inflammation in the large intestine (colon) that leads to ongoing watery diarrhea. It is very rare in children, and not as severe as ulcerative colitis.

What are the different types of pediatric microscopic colitis?

There are three types of microscopic colitis:

Collagenous colitis

This condition occurs when a thick layer of collagen (a type of protein) forms in the intestines and makes it harder for your child to digest food.

Lymphocytic colitis

This occurs when too many white blood cells (lymphocytes) collect in the intestines and cause swelling and inflammation.

Incomplete microscopic colitis

Children with incomplete microscopic colitis have symptoms like chronic diarrhea but don’t fit the definitions of the other two types of colitis.

What are the signs and symptoms of pediatric microscopic colitis?

• Chronic watery diarrhea

• Dehydration

• Fecal incontinence

• Nausea

• Pain or cramping in the abdomen

• Unintentional weight loss

How is pediatric microscopic colitis diagnosed?

Your child’s gastroenterologist can help you find answers about your child’s symptoms with tests such as:

• Stool test to look for causes of diarrhea like bacterial infection

• Colonoscopyto examine your child’s large intestine

• During the colonoscopy, biopsies will be obtained, which involve removing a small piece of your child’s intestine to examine under a microscope

Our gastroenterologists have years of experience performing colonoscopies for children. We will help you prepare your child for their procedure and make sure they are comfortable during the colonoscopy.

What causes pediatric microscopic colitis?

Microscopic colitis can occur when the lining of the intestine is irritated. Common causes include:

• Autoimmune diseases in which the immune system attacks the intestine

• Too much bile (an acid that helps digest food)

• Certain medications

• Toxin-producing bacteria

• Viruses that lead to inflammation

How is pediatric microscopic colitis treated?

Your child’s treatment depends on the cause of their colitis. For instance, if it is caused by a medicine they are taking, your child can stop taking the medicine. Other treatments include:

• Eating a low-fat, low-fiber diet

• Avoiding foods, like dairy or products with gluten, that can irritate the intestines

• Anti-diarrheal medications

• Steroids or anti-inflammatory medicines to help control inflammation

• Medicines that calm the immune system to stop inflammation

• Medications that reduce how much bile your child makes so their intestine is less inflamed

Our gastroenterology team provides comprehensive care. Our physicians and registered dietitians work together to ensure your child is getting the right medicines and nutrition for their needs.