title: Normal histology of the colon.
abstract: We describe the normal gross anatomy and histology of the colon, with emphasis on the appearance of the mucosa as seen in the endoscopic biopsies. Various artifacts that may be encountered as a result of trauma from the biopsy forceps, incorrect orientation of the tissue, fixation, and the effects of laxatives and enemas are described and illustrated. Recommendations for optimum handling of biopsies are made.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle 98195.
authors.forename: D S
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Levine
authors.forename: R C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Haggitt
mesh_terms: D001706:Biopsy / Q000009:adverse effects; D002400:Cathartics / Q000009:adverse effects; D003106:Colon / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D004724:Endoscopy; D004733:Enema / Q000009:adverse effects; D004848:Epithelium / Q000648:ultrastructure; D006801:Humans; D007413:Intestinal Mucosa / Q000187:drug effects / Q000293:injuries / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D013048:Specimen Handling
chemical_list: D002400:Cathartics