An Unusual Presentation of Ulcerative Colitis in a Young Girl: A Case Report

Pulmonary manifestations of ulcerative colitis have been well recognized, but incidence of bronchiectasis is rare, particularly in children.In this study, a 16-year old girl is presented with rectorrhagy and abdominal cramp, who developed pulmonary symptoms as productive cough and dyspnea after a short period of time. Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis showed hypoxia and hypercapnea. Chest x- ray and high resolution computerized tomography (HRCT) demonstrated honey comb pattern and changes indicating bronchiectasis in lower segments of both lungs.Ulcerative colitis pattern was present in rectosigmoid biopsy. Open lung biopsy was performed to achieve definite diagnosis.Pathologic findings along with clinical and radiological presentations revealed a bronchiectatic pattern.The patient underwent treatment with bronchodilators, sulfasalazine and prednisolone; consequently, the symptoms were relieved. (Tanaffos 2005; 4(14): 71-74)