Abstract

CHRONIC LAXATIVE AND MELANOSIS COLI: CASE SERIES REVIEW

Dr. Linsa Ann Saji*, Dr. Shani S.

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Abstract

Melanosis coli is a condition in which the colon develops a brown to black discoloration. It is often linked to long-term laxative usage and typically diagnosed by chance during colonoscopy or through histopathologic evaluation, potentially raising the risk of colorectal cancer. We review three cases of melanosis coli in patients with a history of chronic constipation and regular laxative use who underwent colonoscopy revealed features of melanosis. The study underscores the misuse of over-the-counter laxatives.

Keywords: Melanosis coli, Anthraquinone laxatives, Constipation.