[Colitis due to chemotherapeutic agent]

From 1965 through 1989, a total of 1,382 cases of malignant trophoblastic neoplasms, were treated in our hospital. Colitis related to chemotherapy was observed in 110 cases. This toxic reaction was specific to 5-Fluorouracil treatment and may result in pseudomembranous colitis if improperly treated. Staphylococcus aureus or Clostridium difficile was the causative agent. For the early detection of this disease, it is necessary to monitor the bacteria flora in the smear of fecal substance. Vancomycin and Metronidazole together with lactobacillus preparation were given and proved to be effective in most cases. The mechanism of formation of pseudomembranous colitis, the causative agents and method of diagnosis and treatment were discussed.