Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

Which condition is indicated by crypt abscesses?

1. Crohn's disease

2. Ulcerative colitis

3. Diverticulitis

4. Celiac disease

The correct answer is: Ulcerative colitis

Crypt abscesses are commonly associated with ulcerative colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These abscesses are the result of inflammation within the crypts of the intestinal mucosa, leading to the accumulation of neutrophils in the crypts. This specific histological finding is a hallmark of ulcerative colitis and helps to differentiate it from other gastrointestinal conditions. In contrast, Crohn's disease can also cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract but typically presents with different histological features, such as transmural inflammation and granulomas. Diverticulitis is characterized by the inflammation or infection of diverticula in the colon and does not involve crypt abscesses. Celiac disease, an immune-mediated disorder triggered by gluten, primarily causes villous atrophy in the small intestine and does not present with crypt abscesses. Understanding the distinction in histological findings is crucial for diagnosing these conditions effectively.