Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 15, 2026
08:02
Visualization of Estrogen Receptors in Colons of Mice with TNBS-Induced Crohn's Disease using Immunofluorescence
Published on: March 12, 2020
Glutaraldehyde-induced colitis: three case reports
Oya Ovünç Kurdaş1, Mesut Sezikli, Züleyha Akkan Cetinkaya
1Gastroenterohepatology Department, Haydarpaşa Numune Research and Education Hospital, Usküdar, Istanbul, Turkey.
Summary
Glutaraldehyde disinfectant can cause colitis if it contacts the colon. Thoroughly rinsing endoscopes after disinfection prevents this rare complication, which resolves with supportive care.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Devices
- Infectious Disease Control
Background:
- Glutaraldehyde is a common disinfectant for endoscopic instruments.
- Proper disinfection is crucial for patient safety during colonoscopy.
- Rare complications of medical procedures require careful documentation.
Observation:
- Three cases of colitis were observed following colonoscopy procedures.
- Patients presented with symptoms of colitis after endoscope use.
- Histological examination confirmed colitis in affected patients.
Findings:
- Direct contact between glutaraldehyde solution and colonic mucosa caused self-limited colitis.
- The colitis resolved in all reported cases with supportive treatment.
- Thorough rinsing of endoscopes is essential to prevent glutaraldehyde exposure.
Implications:
- Highlights a rare but significant complication of colonoscopy.
- Emphasizes the importance of meticulous endoscope reprocessing protocols.
- Informs clinicians about potential iatrogenic causes of colitis.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Gastritis III: Clinical Manifestations and Management
The clinical manifestations of gastritis can vary depending on the cause and type of gastritis, but some common symptoms may include the following.
Clinical manifestations of acute gastritis
The patient with acute gastritis may have a rapid onset of symptoms, such as epigastric pain or discomfort, dyspepsia, anorexia, hiccups, or nausea and vomiting, which can last from a few hours to a few days. Erosive or hemorrhagic gastritis may cause bleeding, which may manifest as blood in vomit or as...
Clinical manifestations of acute gastritis
The patient with acute gastritis may have a rapid onset of symptoms, such as epigastric pain or discomfort, dyspepsia, anorexia, hiccups, or nausea and vomiting, which can last from a few hours to a few days. Erosive or hemorrhagic gastritis may cause bleeding, which may manifest as blood in vomit or as...
01:29Drugs for Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis in IBD
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the colon and rectum. The primary drugs used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis are aminosalicylates. They exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. They modulate inflammatory mediators and inhibit the activity of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). Aminosalicylates also reduce inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin and leukotriene production and decreasing neutrophil chemotaxis and superoxide generation.