Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis

Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis

A thorough physical exam and a series of tests may be needed to diagnose ulcerative colitis.

Blood tests can check for low blood count, or anemia, which could indicate bleeding in the intestines. Blood tests may also uncover a high white blood cell count, which is a sign of inflammation. By testing a stool sample, the doctor can tell if there is bleeding or infection in the intestines.

The doctor may need to do a colonoscopy, which involves inserting an endoscope into the anus to see the inside of the large intestine. An endoscope is a long, flexible,lighted tube hooked to a computer and TV monitor. He or she will see any inflammation or bleeding.
During a colonoscopy, the doctor may do a biopsy, which involves taking a sample of tissue from the intestinal lining to look at under a microscope. A barium enema x-ray of the colon may also be needed. The colon is filled with barium, a chalky white solution. The barium shows up white on x-ray film, allowing the doctor a clear view of the colon.