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Ulcerative Colitis Treatment Case:
Breaking the Cycle of Steroid Relapse
How can we resolve recurring symptoms and steroid dependency?
Case of a Patient in Their 50s
Hello. This is HanStep Korean Medicine Clinic, which has been researching and treating ulcerative colitis since 2007. The case we are presenting today involves a patient in their 50s who was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis via endoscopy after testing positive for fecal occult blood during a health checkup.
The patient was subsequently prescribed Mezavant and Solondo (steroids) at a large general hospital, which led to temporary improvement. However, they arrived at our clinic after experiencing a typical relapse pattern where symptoms worsened during the steroid tapering process.
Main Symptoms at Initial Visit
- Bowel movements: 4-6 episodes of diarrhea per day, bloody stools, mucus in stools, and tenesmus
- Digestive system: Indigestion after meals, symptoms worsening with overeating and stress
- Inflammation markers: Calprotectin level 1429 (very high)
- Medication: Relapse despite steroid use
Treatment Progress and Process
A record of managing inflammation through herbal medicine prescriptions while gradually reducing Western medication.
Start of Treatment
After confirming severe bloody stools and high inflammation levels, we prescribed herbal medicine focused on improving digestive symptoms.
Steroid Tapering and Symptom Improvement
During the steroid reduction process, a positive response occurred where bloody stools and mucus in stools actually disappeared. On January 21, the patient completely stopped taking Solondo.
Achievement of Complete Remission
Calprotectin levels normalized to below 3.8. Even without any Western medication, the patient maintained normal bowel movements and regained enough health to travel abroad.