Findings

The colonic mucosa shows multiple, small (5-7 mm) punctate ulcers surrounded by a zone of inflammatory exudate and hemorrhage.

Impression

Colon, amebic colitis

Clinical Pathologic Correlation
Amebic infection starts with the penetration of the colonic mucosa by organisms resulting in colitis. Subsequently, spread to other organs, especially the liver through the portal circulation, may occur. The clinical manifestations of amebiasis vary considerably from asymptomatic to severe colitis and widespread disease.

Preparation

Fresh

View

Gross photograph

Specimen

Colon

Image Credit

Katsumi M. Miyai, M.D., Ph.D
Department of Pathology
School of Medicine
University of California, San Diego