Briefly describe a specific question, or set of related questions, about a health care test or treatment that this program should consider.

Lymphocytic colitis....causes & treatments...my physician says there is little known about it and little research done about it because of it's rarity. It may be rare, but it sure has made my life miserable. Any chance it could be studied? Any where I could go that might have more complete info on the problem? Thanks, cecilia T

Does your question include a comparison of different health care approaches? (If no, your topic will still be considered.)

If yes, explain the specific technologies, devices, drugs, or interventions you would like to see compared:

What patients or group(s) of patients does your question apply to? (Please include specific details such as age range, gender, coexisting diagnoses, and indications for therapy.)

Are there subgroups of patients that your question might apply to? (For example, an ethnic group, stage or severity of a disease.)

Describe the health-related benefits you are interested in. (For example, improvements in patient symptoms or problems from treatment or diagnosis.)

No longer soiling my undies on a regular basis, my bowel sounds are similiar to a grizzley bear about to attack. I can't do anything without knowing there is a restroom within minutes distance.

I have had this condition for approximently 5 years now. It has affected my career, my social life & my intimate relationship with my spouse. 5 years later, my doctor has no new treatment or info on the condition.

Describe any health-related risks, side effects, or harms that you are concerned about.

Loss of nutrition Loss of weight Loss of social circle Loss of intimacy Loss of career advancement

Appropriateness for EHC Program

Does your question include a health care drug, intervention, device, or technology available (or likely to be available) in the U.S.?

unsure

Which priority area(s) and population(s) does this topic apply to? (check all that apply)

EHC Priority Conditions (updated in 2008)

None

AHRQ Priority Populations

None

Federal Health Care Program

None

Importance

Describe why this topic is important.

This condition has totally changed my life in the last 5 years, and there is just so little treatment available. I know we don't have the same numbers as IBS or other types of colitis, but we are people too!

What specifically motivated you to ask this question? (For example, you are developing a clinical guideline, working with a policy with large uncertainty about the appropriate approach, costly intervention, new research you have read, items in the media you may have seen, a clinical practice dilemma you know of, etc.)

Does your question represent uncertainty for clinicians and/or policy-makers? (For example, variations in clinical care, controversy in what constitutes appropriate clinical care, or a policy decision.)

If yes, please explain:

Potential Impact

How will an answer to your research question be used or help inform decisions for you or your group?

Describe the timeframe in which an answer to your question is needed.

Describe any health disparities, inequities, or impact on vulnerable populations your question applies to.

Nominator Information

Other Information About You: (optional)

Please choose a description that best describes your role or perspective: (you may select more than one category if appropriate)

Are you making a suggestion as an individual or on behalf of an organization?

Individual

Please tell us how you heard about the Effective Health Care Program

Good Housekeeping Magazine