Non-polypoid colorectal neoplasms in ulcerative colitis.

The incidence of colorectal cancer associated with ulcerative colitis (UC) increases with time. It is imperative to identify dysplasia-associated lesions or masses (DALM) and non-polypoid colorectal neoplasms (NP-CRN) to reduce the morbidity and mortality from colorectal cancer associated with UC. Recent findings suggest most dysplastic lesions in UC can be considered as visible under careful endoscopic observation. To find NP-CRN in UC, the careful examination of well-prepared mucosa and noting subtle differences is necessary. Magnifying chromoendoscopy, therefore, can be useful to endoscopically diagnose these subtle findings. The authors believe that targeted biopsies during chromoendoscopy will increasingly be used and replace random biopsies in the future. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.