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[Haemorrhagic colitis after colonoscopy]
M Grenet1, D Tsouria, G Desseaux
1Service de réanimation chirurgicale, hôpital Victor-Provo, boulevard Lacordaire, BP 359, 59056 Roubaix cedex 1, France.
Annales Francaises D'Anesthesie Et De Reanimation
|May 26, 2004
Summary
A woman developed acute hemorrhagic colitis after a colonoscopy, likely due to glutaraldehyde used for endoscope disinfection. She fully recovered without further intervention.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Endoscopy
- Toxicology
Background:
- Colonoscopy is a common diagnostic procedure.
- Proper disinfection of endoscopic equipment is crucial to prevent complications.
- Ambulatory anesthesia is frequently used for patient comfort during colonoscopies.
Observation:
- A 43-year-old woman presented with acute hemorrhagic colitis.
- Symptoms occurred shortly after undergoing a colonoscopy with ambulatory anesthesia.
- The colitis was diagnosed as likely glutaraldehyde-induced.
Findings:
- Glutaraldehyde, a high-level disinfectant for endoscopes, was implicated as the causative agent.
- The patient experienced acute hemorrhagic colitis, a severe inflammation of the colon.
- The condition resolved spontaneously, indicating a self-limiting course.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential adverse effect of endoscope disinfection chemicals.
- It underscores the importance of meticulous disinfection protocols to prevent chemical-induced colitis.
- Further investigation into alternative disinfectants or improved rinsing techniques may be warranted.