Factors preceding relapse of ulcerative colitis

Abstract

The effect of intercurrent diarrhoea on relapse of ulcerative colitis was investigated. Diarrhoea resulting from travel abroad, gastroenteritis or antibiotic usage resulted in an approximately 50% relapse rate. With regard to colonoscopy and barium enema, only the latter was followed by relapse and this may reflect differences in the preparation for the procedure.