What is the main emergency treatment for toxic megacolon in ulcerative colitis?

The main emergency treatment for toxic megacolon in ulcerative colitis focuses on addressing the acute inflammatory process and preventing further complications. Administering intravenous fluids and antibiotics is crucial in this scenario because it helps to stabilize the patient by correcting dehydration and managing any potential infections that may arise due to the compromised gut.

In cases of toxic megacolon, the colon becomes dilated, and there is a significant risk of perforation, which can lead to peritonitis, sepsis, and potentially death. Therefore, early intervention using fluids helps maintain blood pressure and organ perfusion, while antibiotics target any infectious etiologies or secondary infections that might be present.

Other treatments, while relevant in different contexts of ulcerative colitis management, are not the immediate priority in a case of toxic megacolon. Surgery may be considered if the condition does not improve with medical management, but it is not the first step. Intravenous immunoglobulin is generally used for specific immunomodulatory effects in various diseases but is not indicated here. Finally, high-dose oral steroids are typically not appropriate during the acute management phase of toxic megacolon, especially if the patient cannot tolerate oral medications, as the risk of bowel perforation is heightened.

Therefore