What is one possible complication of Ulcerative Colitis?

Colorectal carcinoma is a significant complication associated with ulcerative colitis, particularly in patients with long-standing disease. The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with the duration and extent of ulcerative colitis. This relationship is thought to arise due to chronic inflammation and the resulting dysplastic changes in the colonic mucosa.

Patients diagnosed with ulcerative colitis should undergo regular surveillance colonoscopy after eight years of diagnosis, as early detection of dysplasia can lead to timely management and intervention, improving outcomes. The cumulative risk of colorectal cancer in these patients can reach as high as 18% to 30% after 30 years.

In contrast, while bowel obstruction could theoretically occur due to severe inflammation or scarring, it is not a primary complication directly linked to ulcerative colitis as it is with colorectal cancer. Conditions like pneumothorax and peptic ulcer disease are generally not associated with ulcerative colitis. Pneumothorax primarily relates to respiratory issues, while peptic ulcers are more frequently associated with Helicobacter pylori infection and NSAID use, not inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis.