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Cytomegalovirus peritonitis in a patient with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
C M Wilcox1, C E Forsmark, T M Darragh
1Gastroenterology Division, San Francisco General Hospital, California.
Abstract:
Peritonitis has been reported infrequently in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Intestinal or colonic perforation resulting from cytomegalovirus (CMV) enteritis is the most common cause of peritonitis in these patients. We report a patient with CMV peritonitis occurring in the absence of perforation (primary peritonitis) to alert physicians to this potentially treatable disorder.
Insights
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) peritonitis is rare in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients. This case highlights CMV peritonitis without perforation, a treatable condition physicians should recognize.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Peritonitis is an uncommon complication in patients diagnosed with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) enteritis leading to intestinal or colonic perforation is the most frequent cause of peritonitis in this demographic.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing peritonitis in immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- A case of cytomegalovirus (CMV) peritonitis is presented in a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- The peritonitis occurred in the absence of any detectable intestinal or colonic perforation.
- This presentation signifies a primary form of CMV peritonitis.
Findings:
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) can cause peritonitis in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients even without gastrointestinal perforation.
- Primary CMV peritonitis represents a distinct clinical entity requiring specific diagnostic considerations.
- The condition is potentially treatable, emphasizing the need for early recognition.
Implications:
- Physicians should consider primary cytomegalovirus (CMV) peritonitis in the differential diagnosis for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients presenting with peritonitis.
- This recognition can lead to earlier and appropriate treatment, potentially improving patient outcomes.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and management of primary CMV peritonitis in immunocompromised hosts is warranted.