Changes in the Mucosa of Colon Conduits with Particular Reference to the Risk of Malignant Change

Abstract

Intestinal suction biopsies were obtained in 15 infants and children with cutaneous coloureterostomies. The patients were subdivided into groups according to the length of time the conduit was established, i.e., < 5 yr, 5-10 yr, 10-15 years and > 15 yr. The histological changes found were chronic inflammation with a dense infiltration of plasma cells and eosinophils. The changes were progressive and correlated with the length of time the conduit was established. As persistent chronic inflammation is a precursor of malignancy, it seems likely that there is a risk of malignant change in these conduits. Regular follow-up of such patients is recommended and should include flexible fiberoptic endoscopy of the conduit.