Multiple Rectal Ulcers (5 of 110)

Close up of deep and large ulcer in the rectum Severe ulcerative colitis, the least common form of the disease, occurs in 15% of all patients with ulcerative colitis. This form of the disease may be the initial presentation or may represent a progression from a less severe attack. Diarrhea is profuse and rectal bleeding is constant and severe. Fever is marked and sustained, and appetite and weight are both severely diminished. Abdominal cramps are severe and tenderness may be localized, indicating impending perforation. Leukocytes greater than 10,000, severe anemia, and hypoalbuminemia resulting from low protein intake (anorexia) and increased chronic loss of albumin are hallmarks of this form of the disease. Medical therapy is often ineffective for this type of patient, and colectomy is often required.