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Pseudomembranous gastritis: a complication from aspergillus infection

Danny L Sanders1, Ralph B Pfeiffer, Luis A Hashimoto

  • 1Department of Surgery, The University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA.

The American Surgeon
|July 11, 2003
PubMed

Insights

This case report details the first instance of isolated pseudomembranous gastritis caused by Aspergillus in a patient with severe upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The rare fungal infection led to multiorgan system failure and death.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Mycology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Pseudomembranes in the gastrointestinal tract are typically linked to antibiotic use, steroids, and severe immunosuppression.
  • Previous cases have predominantly involved the large and small intestines, not the stomach.

Observation:

  • A 41-year-old woman presented with severe upper gastrointestinal bleeding following a motor vehicle collision.
  • Endoscopy revealed an antral ulcer with fungal hyphae; biopsy confirmed Aspergillus.
  • A total gastrectomy was performed due to exsanguinating hemorrhage.

Findings:

  • Pathological examination of the stomach showed extensive green/brown pseudomembranous gastritis.
  • Aspergillus cultures confirmed the fungal etiology.
  • The patient developed multiorgan system failure and died; autopsy excluded Aspergillus in other organs.

Implications:

  • This represents the first reported case of isolated pseudomembranous gastric aspergillosis.
  • Highlights the potential for Aspergillus to cause severe, isolated gastric pathology.
  • Underscores the importance of considering fungal infections in severe gastrointestinal conditions, even without typical risk factors.

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