Pediatric microscopic colitis (lymphocytic colitis or collagenous colitis)

What is pediatric microscopic colitis (lymphocytic colitis or collagenous colitis)?

Microscopic colitis is characterized by an inflammation (swelling) of the colon (large intestine) that leads to chronic (ongoing) watery diarrhea.

Risk factors

The condition is more common in females than it is in males.

Many individuals who have microscopic colitis also have an autoimmune condition, such as:

• Celiac disease

• Psoriasis

• Rheumatoid arthritis 

• Thyroid disease

• Type 1 diabetes

What are the different types of pediatric microscopic colitis (lymphocytic colitis or collagenous colitis)?

There are two types of microscopic colitis:

• Collagenous colitis occurs when a thick layer of protein (collagen) forms in the colon tissue.

• Lymphocytic colitis occurs when white blood cells (lymphocytes) accumulate in the colon tissue.

What are the signs and symptoms of pediatric microscopic colitis (lymphocytic colitis or collagenous colitis)?

The signs and symptoms of microscopic colitis may come and go regularly, and may include:

• Chronic watery diarrhea

• Fecal incontinence 

• Nausea 

• Pain or cramping in the abdomen

• Unintentional weight loss

What are the causes of pediatric microscopic colitis (lymphocytic colitis or collagenous colitis)?

The causes of microscopic colitis are varied, and include:

• Autoimmune diseases that affect the colon

• Excessive levels of bile acid that irritate the colon lining

• Medications that irritate the colon lining

• Toxin-producing bacteria that irritate the colon lining

• Viruses that lead to inflammation of the colon