Backwash ileitis

In very rare cases, ulcerative colitis can extend beyond the colon into the end of the small intestine. In such a case it is called backwash ileitis.

Backwash ileitis is considered a potential risk factor for colorectal cancer. In a larger study (n = 590 patients) who received a restorative proctocolectomy a colorectal carcinoma was diagnosed in 11.2% of patients. In 107 patients with backwash ileitis this was 29.0%. This must be taken into account for the control of the colonoscopic-bioptic monitoring programs in patients with ulcerative colitis (Heuschen UA et al. 2001).

1. Heuschen UA et al (2001) Backwash ileitis is strongly associated with colorectal carcinoma in ulcerative colitis. Gastroenterology 120:841-847.