EDMONTON (CP) - Edmonton forward Fernando Pisani will be out of the Oilers lineup indefinitely after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, the club announced Tuesday.

Ulcerative colitis is type of inflammatory bowel disorder.

"I would like to thank everyone who has supported me through this difficult time, especially my wife and family," said Pisani, who is currently undergoing treatment. "I appreciate all the wonderful words of encouragement I have received, including messages from my teammates. I look forward to returning to the Oilers." "We are very concerned about Fernando's medical condition and we wish him nothing but a full and healthy recovery," said Oilers General Manager Kevin Lowe in a statement.

Pisani, 30, had 14 goals, 14 assist in 77 games with Edmonton last season. After scoring 14 goals in the 2006 playoffs, Pisani was rewarded with a four-year, US$10-million contract in the off-season.