Microscopic colitis related to food supplement containing turmeric: a review of 3 cases

Microscopic colitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the colon characterized by microscopic changes in the intestinal lining. Turmeric, a commonly used spice, is generally regarded as beneficial for digestive and articular health thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. No cases of microscopic colitis under a food supplement containing turmeric has been previously described in the literature. This article highlights 3 cases where the consumption of a specific turmeric-based supplement caused microscopic colitis. Each of them complained about profuse watery diarrhea shortly after initiating the food supplement containing turmeric. Ileo-colonoscopies with biopsies confirmed the diagnosis of microscopic colitis, with two cases classified as lymphocytic colitis and the third as collagenous colitis. Following the discontinuation of the supplement, all patients experienced a resolution of their symptoms within a few days. Subsequent control biopsies for the three patients confirmed the resolution of microscopic colitis.

Keywords: Turmeric, food supplement, lymphocytic colitis, collagenous colitis.