PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What are possible complications of ulcerative colitis?

1. Cancer, toxic megacolon, colonic perforation, hemorrhage

2. Diverticulitis, bowel obstruction, pancreatitis, perforated ulcer

3. Diabetes, kidney failure, liver cirrhosis, gout

4. Constipation, hemorrhoids, gallstones, hepatitis

The correct answer is: Cancer, toxic megacolon, colonic perforation, hemorrhage

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and has several potential complications associated with it. The correct answer highlights the significant complications that can arise from the condition. Cancer, specifically colorectal cancer, is a well-documented risk in patients with long-standing ulcerative colitis. The risk of developing cancer increases with the duration and extent of inflammation in the colon, particularly after 8 to 10 years of having the disease. Toxic megacolon is another severe complication of ulcerative colitis, characterized by extreme dilation of the colon and a risk of colonic perforation. This condition can lead to life-threatening consequences, requiring urgent medical intervention. Colonic perforation refers to a hole that can develop in the wall of the colon, leading to peritonitis, a serious and potentially fatal infection of the abdominal cavity. This perforation may occur as a result of severe inflammation or toxic megacolon. Hemorrhage, or significant bleeding from the colon, can also occur due to ulceration of the colonic mucosa, which is another major complication associated with ulcerative colitis. The other options mention complications that are either unrelated or more associated with different gastrointestinal conditions. Diverticulitis and bowel obstruction, for