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Chagasic megacolon and proximal jejunum microbiota
A G Guimarães Quintanilha1, M A Azevedo dos Santos, M J Avila-Campos
1Dept of Gastroenterology, Hospital das Clínicas of the University of São Paulo School of Medicine, Brazil.
Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology
|July 27, 2000
Summary
Chagasic megacolon is linked to increased jejunal microflora, including bacteria and fungi. Surgical treatment led to a significant decrease in jejunal microorganisms, suggesting a potential therapeutic benefit.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Jejunal microflora is crucial for intestinal health and can be disrupted by Chagas disease.
- Chagasic megacolon, a complication of Chagas disease, affects intestinal motility and may alter jejunal microbial composition.
- Understanding jejunal microecology in Chagasic megacolon is essential for managing associated complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microbial ecology of the proximal jejunum in patients with Chagasic megacolon.
- To characterize jejunal microflora before and after surgical intervention for Chagasic megacolon.
Main Methods:
- Collection and analysis of intestinal fluids from the proximal jejunum.
- Microbiological assessment of jejunal microflora composition.
Main Results:
- Preoperative jejunal microflora showed signs of bacterial overgrowth syndrome, with increased facultative and strict anaerobes, and fungi.
- Postoperative analysis revealed significant changes in microflora in 83% of patients, marked by a reduction in transient microorganisms.
Conclusions:
- Chagasic megacolon is associated with an elevated jejunal microflora.
- Surgical correction of the colonic impairment resulted in a transient reduction of proximal jejunal microflora.