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Acute pancreatitis as a possible consequence of metronidazole during a relapse of ulcerative colitis
Niki E Tsesmeli1, Kleanthis E Giannoulis, Christos G Savopoulos
11st Propedeutic Medical Department, AHEPA Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Stilponos Kyriakidi 1, Greece. tsesn@med.auth.gr
Abstract:
We present the first case of metronidazole-related acute pancreatitis during a relapse of ulcerative colitis. A 31-year-old male patient, with inflammatory bowel disease on mesalamine treatment for the last 5 months, suffered from a 48-h abdominal pain and nausea. He was also administered metronidazole during a relapse 5 days before. Laboratory and imaging investigation revealed acute pancreatitis. Conservative measures and metronidazole as well as mesalamine withdrawal resulted in complete recovery. Clinical remission of ulcerative colitis was obtained by prednisolone administration. Mesalamine was reintroduced and no recurrence was noticed for a year. Acute pancreatitis was mainly attributed to metronidazole owing to the absence of recurrence after mesalamine readministration, the time of onset after the initiation of metronidazole and the lower typical range between its onset and mesalamine exposure. Identifying acute pancreatitis as a possible consequence of a certain medication in inflammatory bowel disease patients may be particularly important to determine further treatment of their disease.
Insights
This case study highlights metronidazole-induced acute pancreatitis in an ulcerative colitis patient. Prompt withdrawal of metronidazole led to recovery, emphasizing medication-induced pancreatitis awareness in inflammatory bowel disease management.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) management often involves multiple medications.
- Ulcerative colitis (UC) patients may experience drug-related complications.
- Accurate attribution of adverse events is crucial for treatment optimization.
Observation:
- A 31-year-old male with UC presented with abdominal pain and nausea.
- The patient had recently been administered metronidazole for a UC relapse.
- Investigations confirmed acute pancreatitis.
Findings:
- Acute pancreatitis was strongly suspected to be caused by metronidazole.
- Discontinuation of metronidazole and mesalamine led to complete recovery.
- Reintroduction of mesalamine did not result in pancreatitis recurrence.
Implications:
- Metronidazole should be considered a potential cause of acute pancreatitis in IBD patients.
- Differentiating drug-induced pancreatitis is vital for managing IBD.
- This case underscores the importance of vigilant medication review in IBD care.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by factors like gallstone blockage or excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive inflammation that may result from long-term alcohol abuse, obstructions in the pancreatic duct, or genetic factors.
The causes of acute pancreatitis include:
Drugs for Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis in IBD
Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Acute Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
