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Laxatives that contain antraquinones can induce a dark pigmentation in the colonic mucosa.
The finding of pigmented mucosa-melanosis coli-on colonoscopy is associated with which of the following laxatives?
A. Senna
B. Docusate sodium (Colace)
C. Polyethylene glycol (Miralax)
D. Milk of magnesia
Correct answer: A
Laxatives that contain antraquinones (eg, senna) can induce a dark pigmentation in the colonic mucosa. The cecum and rectum are the most commonly affected sites. Despite its appearance on colonoscopy, melanosis coli is a benign finding. The other laxatives do not cause this condition.
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