Clinical manifestations and complications of ulcerative colitis in adult patients

Abstract

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting the mucosa of the colon and rectum, presenting a wide range of clinical manifestations and complications that impact patients' quality of life. This study reviews the existing literature on the clinical manifestations and complications of UC in adult patients, aiming to identify variability in symptoms, prevalence of complications, and current management approaches. Following the integrative review methodology proposed by Whittemore and Knafl (2005), a research question was formulated based on the PICO strategy: "What are the main clinical manifestations and complications of ulcerative colitis in adult patients, and how do different management approaches influence disease treatment?" A systematic search was conducted in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, selecting articles published between 2015 and 2023. Data analysis revealed significant variability in symptoms and complications, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, arthritis, and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Management approaches include medical therapies and surgical interventions, emphasizing individualized treatment and continuous monitoring. This study highlights the importance of early detection and effective management to improve prognosis and quality of life for UC patients.