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Fecal Microbiota Transplantation via Colonoscopy for Recurrent C. difficile Infection
Published on: December 8, 2014
Enteral Clostridium difficile, an emerging cause for high-output ileostomy
R N Williams1, D Hemingway, A S Miller
1Department of Surgery, Leicester Royal Infirmary, University Hospitals Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK. Robert.N.Williams@uhl-tr.nhs.uk
Journal of Clinical Pathology
|May 19, 2009
Summary
High-output ileostomies can cause dehydration and acute kidney injury. Investigating Clostridium difficile infection in the small intestine is crucial for managing these cases effectively.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Nephrology
Background:
- High-output ileostomies (>1200 ml/day) pose significant risks including dehydration and acute renal failure.
- Current management focuses on fluid/electrolyte balance, output reduction, and treating underlying causes.
Observation:
- Two cases presented with high-output ileostomy linked to Clostridium difficile infection in the small intestine.
- This suggests small bowel C. difficile can manifest as severe enteritis, mimicking colonic disease.
Findings:
- Enteric Clostridium difficile infection can present as a high-output ileostomy.
- This challenges the traditional focus on colonic C. difficile, highlighting small bowel involvement.
Implications:
- The diagnostic algorithm for high-output ileostomy should include testing for small bowel C. difficile.
- Early identification and treatment of enteric C. difficile can prevent severe complications associated with ileostomies.
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