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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
Summary
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.