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Does No Symptoms Mean the End?
A Case of Complete Remission of Ulcerative Colitis
A record of a female patient in her 50s who achieved complete normalization of inflammation levels beyond clinical remission
Patient History
Hello. This is HanStep Korean Medicine Clinic. Today, we introduce the case of a female patient in her 50s who visited us while in a state of 'clinical remission' with almost no symptoms, but successfully completed treatment by completely eliminating inflammation as observed in endoscopic results.
The patient had been receiving treatment at a general hospital since being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2021 and faced difficulties in medication management, such as hair loss due to side effects of Asacol. At the time of her visit, there were almost no visible symptoms, but we confirmed through calprotectin levels that inflammation remained in the intestines.
Status at Time of Visit (Nov 2025)
- Bowel Movements: Normal stool once a day, no bloody stool
- Calprotectin: 105 points (exceeds normal range)
- Notes: Atrophic gastritis, indigestion when overeating, accompanied by rhinitis
Why Treatment Is Needed Even Without Symptoms
Having no symptoms does not mean there is no inflammation. If intestinal inflammation remains, it can recur into an active phase at any time, and if it persists for a long period, the risk of colorectal cancer increases. The true goal of ulcerative colitis treatment should be 'complete remission', where not only 'clinical remission' is achieved but also test levels and endoscopic results are clear.
Step-by-Step Treatment Record
From improving the upper digestive tract to controlling inflammation, normal levels were regained through step-by-step prescriptions.
Rapid Decrease in Initial Inflammation Levels
With upper digestive tract prescriptions, the calprotectin level dropped from 105 to less than 3.8 in just one month, and the inflammation effectively disappeared.
Elimination of Underlying Causes and Full Normalization
During treatment, levels rose temporarily, but this was a natural process as a second cause was revealed. By switching to an inflammation-focused prescription, levels returned to below 3.8 by the end of April.
The Promise of HanStep Korean Medicine Clinic
If inflammation remains even if there are no symptoms, treatment must be continued. We will be with you until the end to achieve complete remission proven by endoscopy. For any questions including Inquiry, please contact HanStep Korean Medicine Clinic.