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Segmental haemorrhagic colitis under ciprofloxacin therapy
Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie
|May 7, 2009
Summary
Segmental hemorrhagic colitis, a rare antibiotic-associated condition, was observed in a patient taking ciprofloxacin. Symptoms resolved rapidly after discontinuing the antibiotic, suggesting a potential toxic reaction.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antibiotic-associated colitis is a known complication of certain medications.
- Penicillin therapy has been previously linked to segmental hemorrhagic colitis.
Observation:
- A 34-year-old male presented with hematochezia and abdominal pain after a four-day course of ciprofloxacin for sinusitis.
- Physical examination revealed mild abdominal tenderness and rectal bleeding.
- Colonoscopy showed severe hemorrhagic colitis with map-like lesions in the sigmoid and descending colon.
Findings:
- Histopathology confirmed acute erosive, ulcerative colitis.
- Stool cultures were negative for pathogens.
- Symptoms resolved within three days of ciprofloxacin cessation without specific treatment.
Implications:
- This case suggests ciprofloxacin may induce segmental hemorrhagic colitis, possibly via a toxic or idiosyncratic reaction.
- The rapid onset of symptoms contrasts with previously reported quinolone-induced cases.
- Further investigation into fluoroquinolone-associated gastrointestinal toxicity is warranted.
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