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Cytomegalovirus-associated colitis causing diarrhea in an immunocompetent patient
Dan Carter1, David Olchovsky, Russell Pokroy
1Internal Medicine A, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. carterd@zahav.net.il
World Journal of Gastroenterology
|November 16, 2006
Summary
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) colitis is rare in immunocompetent individuals. This case highlights CMV colitis as a cause of severe diarrhea in an elderly immunocompetent woman, responding well to ganciclovir.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is typically associated with immunocompromised individuals.
- CMV colitis is an uncommon cause of gastrointestinal distress in immunocompetent populations.
Observation:
- A case of severe, life-threatening diarrhea in an elderly immunocompetent woman was reported.
- Clinical presentation mimicked other forms of colitis, necessitating thorough investigation.
Findings:
- Diagnosis of CMV colitis was confirmed through colonoscopic biopsies showing characteristic histological changes.
- Positive CMV antigen and elevated CMV-IgM titers in peripheral blood supported the diagnosis.
- The patient showed significant clinical improvement with systemic ganciclovir therapy.
Implications:
- CMV colitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of colitis in elderly, immunocompetent patients presenting with severe diarrhea.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to favorable outcomes, even in this patient population.
- This case expands the understanding of CMV's potential impact beyond immunocompromised hosts.
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