Korean J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr.  2010 Mar;13(1):81-85. 10.5223/kjpgn.2010.13.1.81.

Melanosis Coli Associated with Aloe Consumption in a Child

• Shim JO
• Lee SK

• KMID: 1459449
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5223/kjpgn.2010.13.1.81

Abstract

Melanosis coli is described as a black or brown discoloration of the mucosa of the colon. Such a discoloration is largely due to pigment granule deposition in macrophages in the colonic mucosa, which arises from anthraquinone-containing laxative abuse. Melanosis coli has usually been reported in the elderly. We present the first case of melanosis coli associated with aloe consumption in a Korean child.

Keyword

Melanosis coli; Child; Anthraquinone; Laxative

MeSH Terms

Aged
Aloe
Child
Colon
Humans
Macrophages
Melanosis
Mucous Membrane

Figure

• 

  Fig. 1 Colonoscopic finding shows brown pigmentation with aggregates of lymphoid follicles in the rectum and sigmoid (A, B). Patchy intense pigmentation, as well as focal areas of absent pigment in a reticulated pattern, were also noted (C).

• 

  Fig. 2 Light microscopic finding shows the brown pigment granule-laden macrophages (arrows) in the submucosa (A) (H&E stain, ×40) and in the lamina propria (B) (H&E stain, ×200).

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