All of the following are true about toxic megacolon EXCEPT: March 2013 (g)
**Core Concept**
Toxic megacolon is a life-threatening complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), characterized by non-obstructive colonic dilation, often associated with systemic toxicity and high morbidity. It involves a complex interplay between inflammation, muscle dysfunction, and neural mechanisms.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Toxic megacolon involves a combination of factors, including severe inflammation, mucosal edema, and impaired colonic motility. The inflammation leads to the release of various cytokines and mediators, which disrupt the normal functioning of the colonic muscles and nerves. This results in a significant dilation of the colon, often exceeding 6 cm in diameter. The impaired motility and increased intraluminal pressure contribute to the development of systemic toxicity, including fever, tachycardia, and hypotension.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This statement is true about toxic megacolon. The condition is often associated with a significant dilation of the colon, which can lead to complications such as perforation and peritonitis.
**Option B:** This statement is true about toxic megacolon. The condition is often characterized by severe inflammation and mucosal edema, which can lead to impaired colonic motility and increased intraluminal pressure.
**Option C:** This statement is true about toxic megacolon. The condition is often associated with systemic toxicity, including fever, tachycardia, and hypotension, which can lead to multi-organ failure if left untreated.
**Option D:** This statement is false about toxic megacolon. Toxic megacolon is not typically associated with a decrease in colonic motility. Instead, it is often characterized by impaired colonic motility, which can lead to a significant dilation of the colon.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Toxic megacolon is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and treatment. Clinical criteria for diagnosing toxic megacolon include a colonic diameter of 6 cm or greater, abdominal tenderness, fever, tachycardia, and evidence of systemic toxicity.
**Correct Answer: D.**