Cytomegalovirus infection in a patient with Crohn's ileocolitis

Sahin Coban1, Arzu Ensari, Mehmet Ayhan Kuzu

  • 1Department of Gastroenterology, Ankara University Medical School, Balgat 06540, Ankara, Turkey. scoban72@yahoo.com

Insights

Cytomegaloviral enterocolitis is a rare infection that can worsen inflammatory bowel disease. This case highlights the importance of considering cytomegalovirus infection in patients with severe Crohn's disease flares.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Cytomegaloviral enterocolitis is an infrequent complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
  • Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn's disease, requires ongoing management to maintain remission.

Observation:

  • A patient with a three-year history of Crohn's disease presented with acute symptoms of fever, abdominal pain, and watery diarrhea.
  • Radiological findings indicated terminal ileum narrowing, fistulas, and abscesses, suggesting a severe Crohn's disease exacerbation.

Findings:

  • Histopathological examination confirmed Crohn's ileocolitis with a superimposed cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection.
  • The patient underwent ileocolic resection and ileostomy due to the severity of the condition.

Implications:

  • Cytomegalovirus infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients with rapidly deteriorating inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Early recognition and management of CMV in IBD patients may prevent severe complications and surgical interventions.

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