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Gastrointestinal infections in the immunocompromised host
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. lbaden@partners.org
Infectious Disease Clinics of North America
|July 13, 2001
Summary
Immunocompromised patients face significant gastrointestinal disease risks. This review covers infectious complications from cancer treatment and organ transplants, detailing pathogens, diagnosis, and prevention.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Oncology
- Transplantation Medicine
Background:
- Gastrointestinal (GI) disease is a major cause of illness and death in immunocompromised individuals.
- Focuses on infectious GI complications in patients undergoing cancer treatment or solid organ transplantation (excluding HIV).
Observation:
- Reviews the body's natural gastrointestinal defenses.
- Details mechanisms through which these defenses are compromised in vulnerable patient groups.
Findings:
- Discusses common pathogens causing GI infections in this population.
- Highlights key malignancies associated with increased GI complication risk.
- Outlines diagnostic strategies, treatment options, and preventive measures for GI infections.
Implications:
- Informs clinical practice for managing immunocompromised patients.
- Aims to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with GI infections in cancer and transplant patients.
- Provides a framework for understanding and addressing complex GI issues in specialized patient populations.