A disease characterized by inflammation of the lining of the colon and rectum.
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Biology Dictionary
Definition:
Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that involves the mucosa of the colon. The common symptoms are bloody diarrhea and stomach cramps; patients usually have anemia and low serum albumin. Abdominal x-ray films show a dilated colon. The diagnosis is confirmed by biopsy of the mucosa.