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Glutaraldehyde-induced colitis
B L Stein1, E Lamoureux, M Miller
1Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Mortimer B Davis-Jewish General Hospital and McGill University, Montreal, Que.
Canadian Journal of Surgery. Journal Canadien De Chirurgie
|April 20, 2001
Summary
Acute colitis after flexible endoscopy is linked to glutaraldehyde exposure from instrument cleaning. Prompt recognition and proper disinfection can prevent this gastrointestinal complication.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Endoscopy
- Colitis Etiology
Background:
- Flexible endoscopic procedures are common diagnostic tools.
- Complications, though rare, require thorough investigation.
- Instrument reprocessing is critical for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause and clinical progression of acute colitis following flexible endoscopy.
- To identify potential risk factors and patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of eight patients presenting with post-endoscopy colonic symptoms.
- Analysis of symptoms, timing, endoscopic findings, and treatment response.
- Histopathological examination of biopsy specimens.
Main Results:
- All patients developed abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and mucus within 48 hours post-procedure.
- Colitis was confirmed endoscopically; one patient required hospitalization.
- Biopsies showed ischemic-type injury; symptoms resolved with treatment.
Conclusions:
- Glutaraldehyde exposure during instrument disinfection is a likely cause of acute colitis.
- Proper instrument cleansing protocols are essential to mitigate this risk.
- Early recognition and management lead to favorable outcomes.