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Kendrick JB, Risbano M, Groshong SD, Frankel SK. A rare presentation of ischemic pseudomembranous colitis due to Escherichia coli O157:H7. Clin Infect Dis 2007; 45:217-9. [PMID: 17578781 DOI: 10.1086/518990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2006] [Accepted: 03/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli Ol57:H7 infection ranges from mild diarrheal illness to severe hemorrhagic colitis but may rarely be complicated by pseudomembranous colitis and/or necrosis. Herein, we report a sporadic case of ischemic E. coli Ol57:H7 pseudomembranous colitis in an adult that occurred during a national outbreak of E. coli Ol57:H7 in the United States.
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Hamelin SC. Case of the Month. JAAPA 2007; 20:80. [PMID: 17484335 DOI: 10.1097/01720610-200704000-00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Lamontagne F, Labbé AC, Haeck O, Lesur O, Lalancette M, Patino C, Leblanc M, Laverdière M, Pépin J. Impact of emergency colectomy on survival of patients with fulminant Clostridium difficile colitis during an epidemic caused by a hypervirulent strain. Ann Surg 2007; 245:267-72. [PMID: 17245181 PMCID: PMC1876996 DOI: 10.1097/01.sla.0000236628.79550.e5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 240] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether emergency colectomy reduces mortality in patients with fulminant Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD), and to identify subgroups of patients more likely to benefit from the procedure. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Many hospitals in Quebec, Canada, have noted since 2003 a dramatic increase in CDAD incidence and in the proportion of cases severe enough to require intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The decision to perform an emergency colectomy remains largely empirical. METHODS Retrospective observational cohort study of 165 cases of CDAD that required ICU admission or prolongation of ICU stay between January 2003 and June 2005 in 2 tertiary care hospitals of Quebec. Multivariate analysis was performed through logistic regression; adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. The primary outcome was mortality within 30 days of ICU admission. RESULTS Eighty-seven (53%) cases resulted in death within 30 days of ICU admission, almost half (38 of 87, 44%) within 48 hours of ICU admission. The independent predictors of 30-day mortality were: leukocytosis >or=50 x 10(9)/L (AOR, 18.6; 95% CI, 3.7-94.7), lactate >or=5 mmol/L (AOR, 12.4; 95% CI, 2.4-63.7), age >or=75 years (AOR, 6.5; 95% CI, 1.7-24.3), immunosuppression (AOR, 7.9; 95% CI, 2.3-27.2) and shock requiring vasopressors (AOR, 3.4; 95% CI, 1.3-8.7). After adjustment for these confounders, patients who had an emergency colectomy were less likely to die (AOR, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.07-0.67, P = 0.008) than those treated medically. Colectomy seemed more beneficial in patients aged 65 years or more, in those immunocompetent, those with a leukocytosis >or=20 x 10(9)/L or lactate between 2.2 and 4.9 mmol/L. CONCLUSION Emergency colectomy reduces mortality in some patients with fulminant CDAD.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Pseudomembranous colitis due to Clostridium difficile infection is rarely reported in the obstetric literature. This disease process is associated with prior antibiotic exposure. CASE A term primigravida was delivered by primary cesarean for failed vacuum extraction. She received Intravenous cefazolin after cord clamping, which was continued for 36 hours for a presumptive diagnosis of endometritis. On day 3, oral amoxicillin and clavulanate was started for suspected cellulitis of the incision. She was readmitted 1 day after her discharge with severe diffuse abdominal pain and distention. Proctoscopy showed pseudomembranous colitis. Colectomy with temporary ileostomy was performed for worsening symptoms and imminent perforation. CONCLUSION The diagnosis of pseudomembranous colitis should be considered in postpartum women who have low-grade fever, abdominal and gastrointestinal symptoms, and recent antibiotic exposure.
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DiBuono B, Saavedra T, Pei L, Nussbaumer DP, Lopez FA. A 31-year-old, HIV-positive man presenting with emesis and bloody diarrhea. C. difficile infection. THE JOURNAL OF THE LOUISIANA STATE MEDICAL SOCIETY : OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE LOUISIANA STATE MEDICAL SOCIETY 2007; 159:11-5; quiz 16, 55. [PMID: 17396470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
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Hayetian FD, Read TE, Brozovich M, Garvin RP, Caushaj PF. Ileal perforation secondary to Clostridium difficile enteritis: report of 2 cases. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 141:97-9. [PMID: 16415419 DOI: 10.1001/archsurg.141.1.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Two cases of small-bowel perforation secondary to Clostridium difficile enteritis are described and compared with the 8 cases of C difficile enteritis reported in the medical literature. The cause of small-bowel involvement with C difficile is unknown, but prior antibiotic use, prior colectomy, chronic alterations in small-bowel flora, and other host factors are discussed.
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Koss K, Clark MA, Sanders DSA, Morton D, Keighley MRB, Goh J. The outcome of surgery in fulminant Clostridium difficile colitis. Colorectal Dis 2006; 8:149-54. [PMID: 16412077 DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-1318.2005.00876.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical presentation of Clostridium difficile infection ranges from asymptomatic carriage, colitis with or without pseudomembranes, to fulminant colitis. Although not common, fulminant C. difficile colitis can result in bowel perforation and peritonitis with a high mortality rate. Colectomy is often indicated in these cases. METHODS We retrospectively analysed the outcome of 14 patients who underwent surgery for fulminant C. difficile colitis in the period 1996-2003 in our Unit. RESULTS The indications for surgery were systemic toxicity and peritonitis (n = 10), radiological and clinical evidence of progressive toxic colonic dilatation (n = 3) and progressive colonic dilatation with bowel perforation (n = 1). C. difficile infection as the cause of colitis was diagnosed pre-operatively in seven (50%) patients, six of whom underwent a total colectomy and one a right hemicolectomy. Overall mortality in our series was 35.7%. Total colectomy was associated with a lower mortality rate of 11.1% (1/9) when compared with left hemicolectomy was 100% (4/4) (P = 0.01). One patient who underwent a right hemicolectomy (on the basis of deceptively normal external appearance of the rest of the colon intra-operatively) survived after a prolonged hospital stay. CONCLUSIONS Early or pre-operative microbiological diagnosis of C. difficile infection can be difficult in patients with a fulminant presentation. Those patients with C. difficile colitis, who develop signs of toxicity, peritonitis or perforation, should undergo a total colectomy as the operation of choice.
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Yağci G, Kaymakçioğlu N, Demiriz M, Cetiner S. Fulminant pseudomembranous colitis of the left colon successfully treated by surgical resection. THE TURKISH JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF TURKISH SOCIETY OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2005; 16:174-7. [PMID: 16245233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Pseudomembranous colitis is the classical and most dramatic manifestation of Clostridium difficile infection. Surgery is required for patients with perforation and for those who fail to respond to medical treatment. This is a report of a patient with severe pseudomembranous inflammation confined to the left colon, which was successfully treated by surgical resection.
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Bahadursingh AN, Vagefi PA, Longo WE. Fulminant Clostridium difficile colitis in a patient with spinal cord injury: case report. J Spinal Cord Med 2004; 27:266-8. [PMID: 15478532 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2004.11753760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In certain patients with Clostridium difficile colitis (CDC), a life-threatening systemic toxicity may develop despite appropriate and timely medical therapy. DESIGN Literature search and case report. FINDINGS A 39-year-old man with T10 paraplegia presented with a distended, quiet abdomen following recent treatment with antibiotics for pneumonia. Diarrhea was not present. Complete blood counts demonstrated a marked leukocytosis. A CT scan of the abdomen demonstrated a state of diffuse pancolonic inflammation with peritoneal fluid. The patient was taken to the operating room and underwent total abdominal colectomy with oversewing of the rectal stump and end ileostomy for treatment of the fulminant CDC. CONCLUSION Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) often receive antibiotics for infections of the aerodigestive tree and urinary tract and for problems with skin integrity. A heightened awareness of the development of fulminant CDC remains essential in the care of patients with SCI. Any unexplained abdominal illness after recent antibiotic administration should alert the physician to CDC and its potential as a fulminant, potentially fatal illness.
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Longo WE, Mazuski JE, Virgo KS, Lee P, Bahadursingh AN, Johnson FE. Outcome after colectomy for Clostridium difficile colitis. Dis Colon Rectum 2004; 47:1620-6. [PMID: 15540290 DOI: 10.1007/s10350-004-0672-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Clostridium difficile colitis is a relatively common entity, yet large series of patients with fulminant C. difficile colitis are infrequently reported. This study was designed to identify risk factors, clinical characteristics, and outcome of patients who required colectomy for fulminant C. difficile colitis. METHODS A population-based study on all patients in 159 hospitals of the Department of Veterans Affairs from 1997 to 2001 was performed. Data were compiled from several national computerized Department of Veterans Affairs data sets. Supplementary information including demographic information, discharge summaries, operative reports, and pathology reports were obtained from local medical records. Patient variables were entered into a computerized database and analyzed using the Pearson chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests. Statistical significance was designated as P < 0.05. RESULTS Sixty-seven patients (mean age, 69 (range, 40-86) years; 99 percent males) were identified. All 67 patients had C. difficile verified in the colectomy specimens. Thirty-six of 67 patients (54 percent) developed C. difficile colitis during a hospitalization for an unrelated illness, and 30 of 36 patients (87 percent) after a surgical procedure. Thirty-one of 67 (46 percent) developed C. difficile colitis at home. There was no history of diarrhea in 25 of 67 patients (37 percent). Thirty of 67 patients (45 percent) presented in shock (blood pressure, <90 mmHg). Forty-three of 67 patients (64 percent) presented with an acute surgical abdomen. Mean white blood cell count was 27.2; mean percent bands was 12. Twelve of 67 patients (18 percent) had a negative C difficile colitis stool assay. Abdominal computed tomography correctly diagnosed 45 of 46 patients (98 percent) who were imaged. Twenty-six of 67 patients (39 percent) underwent colonoscopy; all 26 were found to have severe inflammation or pseudomembranes. Fifty-three of 67 patients (80 percent) underwent total colectomy; 14 of 67 underwent segmental colonic resection. Perforation and infarction were found in 59 of 67 patients (58 percent) at surgery. Overall mortality was 48 percent (32/67). Mean hospitalization was 36 (range, 2-297) days. CONCLUSIONS Patients with fulminant C. difficile colitis often present with an unexplained abdominal illness with a marked leukocytosis that rapidly progresses to shock and peritonitis. Although frequently developed during a hospitalization and often after a surgical procedure, it may develop outside of a hospital setting. Diarrhea may be absent and stool cytology may be negative for C. difficile toxin. Perforation and infarction are frequently found at surgery. In those patients who survive, a prolonged hospitalization is common. Mortality from fulminant C. difficile colitis remains high despite surgical intervention.
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Rocha Ramírez JL, Sáenz EV, Montenegro ES. [Pseudomembrane colitis-related toxic megacolon]. REVISTA DE GASTROENTEROLOGIA DE MEXICO 2004; 69:184. [PMID: 15759792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
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Elinav E, Planer D, Gatt ME. Prolonged ileus as a sole manifestation of pseudomembranous enterocolitis. Int J Colorectal Dis 2004; 19:273-6. [PMID: 14618347 DOI: 10.1007/s00384-003-0541-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2003] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pseudomembranous colitis usually manifests as fever and diarrhea in hospitalized patients treated with systemic antibiotics. We present a case that represents a unique variant. CASE PRESENTATION The 44-year-old man suffered of several weeks of abdominal pain, low-grade fever, nausea, vomiting, and lack of bowel movements. Upper gastrointestinal barium swallow and passage series revealed evidence of severe intestinal hypomotility. A thorough evaluation for the cause of the patient's ileus and abdominal pain was unrevealing, and symptomatic treatment was ineffective. Following the administration of opiates and dietary fiber supplementation the patient's abdominal pain and distention rapidly worsened, requiring an urgent subtotal colectomy. The macroscopic and microscopic appearance of the excised colon as well as results of the colonic cytotoxin essay and fecal enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay essay confirmed the diagnosis of severe Clostridium difficile induced pseudomembranous colitis as the cause of the patient's illness. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of Clostridium-difficile induced disease consisting of prolonged ileus in the absence of diarrhea in a patient not previously taking antibiotics.
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Dobson G, Hickey C, Trinder J. Clostridium difficile colitis causing toxic megacolon, severe sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Intensive Care Med 2003; 29:1030. [PMID: 12734650 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-003-1754-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2002] [Accepted: 03/06/2003] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Cirocco WC. Decompressive colonoscopy with intracolonic vancomycin administration for the treatment of severe pseudomembranous colitis. Surg Endosc 2003; 17:1001. [PMID: 12806525 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-002-8715-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Abstract
The spore-forming anaerobic bacterium Clostridium difficile has become a serious enteropathogen. Oral and parenteral administration of antibiotics can cause ecological disturbances in the normal intestinal microflora. Suppression of the normal microflora may lead to reduced colonization resistance with subsequent overgrowth by pre-existing, naturally resistant microorganisms, such as C. difficile. C. difficile infection shows a range of clinical presentations between an asymptomatic carrier state, light diarrhea without inflammatory changes, and pseudomembranous colitis. C. difficile infection is acquired by the fecal-oral or environmental-oral routes. From March 2000 through March 2001 we assessed 48 cases of nosocomial antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). Of these, 21 were due to C. difficile (CDAD). Cephalosporin was the agent most commonly associated with CDAD. Avoidance of cephalosporins, strict use of "single shot" prophylaxis, isolation of infected, symptomatic patients in single-bed rooms, improved hygiene and complete room disinfection lead to a rapid decrease of CDAD. The etiology, prognosis and prophylaxis are discussed in this paper.
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Rai R, Rai S. Pseudomembranous colitis requiring surgical intervention following triple therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication. ANZ J Surg 2002; 72:917-9. [PMID: 12485235 DOI: 10.1046/j.1445-2197.2002.02593.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Zahariadis G, Connon JJ, Fong IW. Fulminant Clostridium difficile colitis without diarrhea: lack of emphasis in diagnostic guidelines. Am J Gastroenterol 2002; 97:2929-30. [PMID: 12425579 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2002.07081.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Pettit PDM, Sevin BU. Intraoperative injury to the gastrointestinal tract and postoperative gastrointestinal emergencies. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2002; 45:492-506. [PMID: 12048407 DOI: 10.1097/00003081-200206000-00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Dallal RM, Harbrecht BG, Boujoukas AJ, Sirio CA, Farkas LM, Lee KK, Simmons RL. Fulminant Clostridium difficile: an underappreciated and increasing cause of death and complications. Ann Surg 2002; 235:363-72. [PMID: 11882758 PMCID: PMC1422442 DOI: 10.1097/00000658-200203000-00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 454] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the epidemiology and characteristics of patients who died or underwent colectomy secondary to fulminant Clostridium difficile colitis. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA In patients with C. difficile colitis, a progressive, systemic inflammatory state may develop that is unresponsive to medical therapy; it may progress to colectomy or death. METHODS The authors reviewed 2,334 hospitalized patients with C. difficile colitis from January 1989 to December 2000. Sixty-four patients died or underwent colectomy for pathologically proven C. difficile colitis. RESULTS In 2000, the incidence of C. difficile colitis in hospitalized patients increased from a baseline of 0.68% to 1.2%, and the incidence of patients with C. difficile colitis in whom life-threatening symptoms developed increased from 1.6% to 3.2%. Forty-four patients required a colectomy and 20 others died directly from C. difficile colitis. Twenty-two percent had a prior history of C. difficile colitis. A recent surgical procedure and immunosuppression were common predisposing conditions. Lung transplant patients were 46 times more likely to have C. difficile colitis and eight times more likely to have severe disease. Abdominal computed tomography scan correctly diagnosed all patients, whereas 12.5% of toxin assays and 10% of endoscopies were falsely negative. Patients undergoing colectomy for C. difficile colitis had an overall death rate of 57%. Significant predictors of death after colectomy were preoperative vasopressor requirements and age. CONCLUSIONS C. difficile colitis is a significant and increasing cause of death. Surgical treatment of C. difficile colitis has a high death rate once the fulminant expression of the disease is present.
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Auvray L, Lenfant F, Lenfant L, Paoli S, Goudet P, Sgro C, Freysz M. [Recurrent fatal pseudomembranous colitis]. Presse Med 2001; 30:1399-400. [PMID: 11688204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clostridium difficile pseudomembranous colitis may trace a fulminent course and require surgery. CASE REPORTS Outcome was fatal despite subtotal colectomy in the reported case of recurrent Clostridium difficile pseudomembranous colitis. Infrequent localization, low serum albumin and an unfavorable clinical course were observed. DISCUSSION Rapid surgical treatment with large resection is mandatory in such cases, particularly in patients of rectal and sigmoid remnant involvement.
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Shetler K, Nieuwenhuis R, Wren SM, Triadafilopoulos G. Decompressive colonoscopy with intracolonic vancomycin administration for the treatment of severe pseudomembranous colitis. Surg Endosc 2001; 15:653-9. [PMID: 11591962 DOI: 10.1007/s004640080104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2000] [Accepted: 11/15/2000] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We explored the potential of early decompressive colonoscopy with intracolonic vancomycin administration as an adjunctive therapy for severe pseudomembranous Clostridium difficile colitis with ileus and toxic megacolon. METHODS We reviewed the symptoms, signs, laboratory tests, radiographic findings, and outcomes from the medical records of seven patients who experienced eight episodes of severe pseudomembranous colitis with ileus and toxic megacolon. All seven patients underwent decompressive colonoscopy with intracolonic perfusion of vancomycin. RESULTS Fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, abdominal distention, and tenderness were present in all patients. Five of seven patients were comatose, obtunded, or confused, and six of the seven required ventilatory support. The white blood cell count was greater than 16,000 in seven cases (six patients). Colonoscopy showed left-side pseudomembranous colitis in one patient, right-side colitis in one patient, and diffuse pseudomembranous pancolitis in five patients. Two patients were discharged with improvement. Five patients had numerous medical problems leading to their death. Complete resolution of pseudomembranous colitis occurred in four patients. One patient had a partial response, and two patients failed therapy. CONCLUSION Colonoscopic decompression and intracolonic vancomycin administration in the management of severe, acute, pseudomembranous colitis associated with ileus and toxic megacolon is feasible, safe, and effective in approximately 57% to 71% of cases.
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Klingler PJ, Metzger PP, Seelig MH, Pettit PD, Knudsen JM, Alvarez SA. Clostridium difficile infection: risk factors, medical and surgical management. Dig Dis 2001; 18:147-60. [PMID: 11279333 DOI: 10.1159/000051388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clostridium difficile has become recognized as a cause of nosocomial infection which may progress to a fulminant disease. METHODS Literature review using electronic literature research back to 1966 utilizing Medline and Current Contents. All publications on antibiotic-associated diarrhea, antibiotic-associated colitis, and pseudomembranous colitis as well as C. difficile infection were included. We addressed established and potential risk factors for C. difficile disease such as an impaired immune system and cost benefits of different diagnostic tests. An algorithm is outlined for diagnosis and both medical and surgical management of mild, moderate and severe C. difficile disease. RESULTS Diagnosis of C. difficile infection should be suspected in patients with diarrhea, who have received antibiotics within 2 months or whose symptoms started after hospitalization. A stool specimen should be tested for the presence of leukocytes and C. difficile toxins. If this is negative and symptoms persist, stool should be tested with 'rapid' enzyme immunoabsorbent and stool cytotoxin assays, which are the most cost-effective tests. Endoscopy and other imaging studies are reserved for severe and rapidly progressive courses. Oral metronidazole or vancomycin are the antibiotics of choice. Surgery is rarely required for selected patients refractory to medical treatment. The threshold for surgery in severe cases with risk factors including an impaired immune system should be low. CONCLUSION C. difficile infection has been recognized with increased frequency as a nosocomial infection. Early diagnosis with immunoassays of the stool and prompt medical therapy have a high cure rate. Metronidazole has supplanted oral vancomycin as the drug of first choice for treating C. difficile infections.
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Abstract
From 1968 to 1979, 18 patients underwent emergency abdominal colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis. Indications for operation included massive colonic bleeding (11), obstructing carcinoma (5), toxic megacolon (1), and enterocolitis (1). Five patients died postoperatively (27.8 per cent). Causes of death included sepsis, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and respiratory failure. All had peritonitis, and five had documented anastomotic leaks. Seven of the surviving patients had significant morbidity from the procedure which included anastomotic leak, small bowel obstruction, wound infection, sepsis, and pulmonary emboli. Only six patients survived without complications. Although others have written about the safety of emergency subtotal colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis, our experience suggests this procedure is associated with excessive morbidity and mortality.
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