Toxic megacolon laboratory findings

Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of toxic megacolon include anemia and leukocytosis. Some patients with toxic megacolon may have elevated concentration of Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP), which is usually suggestive of inflammation.

• Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of toxic megacolon include:^{[1][2][3][4][5]}
  • Anemia
  • Leukocytosis especially in patients with Clostridium difficile infection
  • Hypoalbuminemia
  • Metabolic alkalosis associated with a poor prognosis
  • Metabolic acidosis secondary to ischemic colitis
• Some patients with toxic megacolon may have elevated Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration.^[6][7][8][9]
• Electrolyte disturbances are common secondary to inflammatory diarrhea, steroid use and ongoing gastrointestinal losses.^{[4][10][11][12]}

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