American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is a symptom of severe Ulcerative Colitis?

1. Fever below 37.5 °C

2. Less than 4 stools per day

3. Frequent blood in stool

4. Normal hemoglobin levels

The correct answer is: Frequent blood in stool

In severe Ulcerative Colitis, frequent blood in the stool is a hallmark symptom. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the colon, which can lead to ulceration and significant damage to the intestinal lining. As a result, individuals with severe forms of this disease often experience frequent rectal bleeding, which is manifested as blood in their stools. The presence of blood indicates a level of inflammation and damage that typically correlates with more severe disease activity. Other symptoms associated with severe Ulcerative Colitis can include greater bowel frequency, abdominal pain, and systemic signs such as fever and weight loss. The severity of the disease is often assessed by the frequency of bowel movements and the presence of blood, among other clinical features. This makes the presence of frequent blood in stool a critical indicator of the severity of the condition and a reason for prompt medical attention.