Ulcerative colitis in 17 yr old girl masquerading as severe anemia: A case report

Abstract

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. It is localized to the colon and spares the upper gastrointestinal tract. Ulcerative colitis can occur at any age, the peak incidence is among the age group 15-25 years and in 55-65 years. The first pediatric case was reported by Helmholz. The purpose of reporting this case of 17 year old girl with ulcerative colitis who presented with severe anemia is, to not only create awareness of ulcerative colitis among pediatric age group but also to discuss the challenges facing the diagnosis and management of the disease in a developing country like India.