A brown stoma appearance can indicate which condition?

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Multiple Choice

A brown stoma appearance can indicate which condition?

Explanation:
Brown stoma color points to melanosis coli, a pigment change in the intestinal mucosa from chronic stimulant laxative use, especially products containing cascara. The pigment deposition darkens the mucosa and can be seen at the stoma. This differs from infection, dehydration, or inflammation, which produce signs like redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, or systemic symptoms. If you see a brown stoma, review the patient’s laxative history and monitor for any other concerning signs, but recognize that this discoloration can reflect melanosis coli rather than an acute complication.

Brown stoma color points to melanosis coli, a pigment change in the intestinal mucosa from chronic stimulant laxative use, especially products containing cascara. The pigment deposition darkens the mucosa and can be seen at the stoma. This differs from infection, dehydration, or inflammation, which produce signs like redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, or systemic symptoms. If you see a brown stoma, review the patient’s laxative history and monitor for any other concerning signs, but recognize that this discoloration can reflect melanosis coli rather than an acute complication.

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