Understanding Ulcerative Colitis Testing

Samples of stool may be tested for pathogenic bacteria and certain markers of inflammation. Your doctor will give you a container for collecting and storing the stool.

This diagnostic test allows your doctor to evaluate your intestine by tracking the movement of a thick, chalky liquid called barium. The barium dye coats the lining of the bowel—creating a silhouette of your rectum, colon, and a portion of your intestine that’s visible on an X-ray.

A CT scan takes a series of X-rays at different levels to create a cross-sectional image of the bowel—as well as images of tissues outside the bowel that can’t be seen with other tests. CT scans help your doctor diagnose your UC and determine the location and extent of your disease. They can also help check for potential complications and rule out conditions with similar symptoms.

White blood cells are drawn to the site of inflammation in the body. This test tracks your white blood cells to determine how much inflammation your UC may be causing in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

An endoscopy may be combined with ultrasound. An ultrasound probe is attached to the endoscope to create specialized images of the wall of your esophagus or stomach—or to create images of hard-to-reach organs, such as your pancreas. Newer endoscopes use high-definition video to provide very clear images.

A large magnet and radio waves help doctors look at organs and structures inside your body. MRI is very helpful in diagnosing and managing ulcerative colitis.

• Pelvic MRI: Commonly used for evaluating fistulas around the anal area.
• MRI Enterography: Commonly used for examining the small intestine.