Melanosis coli is a potentially reversible change in the colonic mucosa.
The typical patient has a history of chronic constipation.
Risk factors:
(1) chronic ingestion of anthranoid laxatives (senna and rhubarb derivatives)
(2) chronic intake of Cape Aloe
(3) diacerein (an anthraquilone)
(4) ingestion of chitticum bark (Rhamnus purshiana; a buckthorn used as a laxative)
Gross appearance: diffuse dark coloration of the colonic mucosa
Microscopic appearance: histiocytes containing black pigment within the cytoplasm
The condition can slowly revert if the causative exposure is discontinued.
Differential diagnosis:
(1) ischemic necrosis
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Specialty: Gastroenterology, Surgery, general
