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Severe pseudomembranous colitis after lincomycin and clindamycin
The British Journal of Surgery
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Severe pseudomembranous colitis can occur after lincomycin and clindamycin use, with some cases being fatal. Early diagnosis via sigmoidoscopy is crucial for prompt treatment of this serious gastrointestinal condition.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Lincomycin and clindamycin are antibiotics sometimes used postoperatively.
- Severe adverse events, including fatal outcomes, have been associated with these drugs.
Observation:
- Four severe cases of pseudomembranous colitis were reported following lincomycin or clindamycin use.
- In a review of 156 orthopedic patients, 22% experienced diarrhea, with 3 severe cases occurring in this group.
Findings:
- The diagnosis of pseudomembranous colitis can be challenging due to a significant latent period after drug initiation or cessation.
- Early sigmoidoscopy is valuable for diagnosing diarrhea of unknown origin, revealing characteristic pseudomembranous colitis findings.
Implications:
- Lincomycin and clindamycin should be used with caution, particularly in elderly females, due to their potential to cause lethal conditions.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention are critical for managing pseudomembranous colitis and improving patient outcomes.