Ulcerative colitis is a disease of a part of the digestive system, the large intestine. It is a type of idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease. It happens when inflammation develops in the large intestine and sores called “ulcers” are caused. The disease usually presents with diarrhea that may be bloody, abdominal pain or cramps, and weakness. We don’t know the etiology behind ulcerative colitis, but environmental and genetic factors likely play a role in the disease.

We can diagnose ulcerative colitis by carrying out an endoscopic procedure called a ‘colonoscopy’ or using a similar test called a ‘sigmoidoscopy’. With these tests, done here at our clinic at Metropolitan General, using a flexible tube, called an endoscope, with a camera and a light on the end of it, that we place in the lower part of the colon, we see inside the large intestine to locate possible damage. A series of imaging studies, blood and stool tests will help to diagnose the severity and extent of the disease. We offer the latest drugs to control this chronic disease and prevent complications including colon cancer or colectomy from a serious condition. Dr. Desalermos is a specialist in spiral colitis, having experience in complex cases, using the most modern pharmaceutical options. Dr. Desalermos has worked at one of the world reference centers for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, University California San Diego, alongside the internationally renowned gastroenterologist and pioneer in idiopathic bowel diseases William Sandborn.