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Atypical presentation of pseudomembranous colitis localized in adenomatous polyps

Cristian Hernández-Rocha1, Jonathan Barra-Carrasco, Ana María Guzmán

  • 1Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 367, Santiago 6510260, Chile.

World Journal of Gastroenterology
|January 25, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Pseudomembranous colitis, often caused by Clostridium difficile infection, typically presents diffusely. This case report details a rare instance of C. difficile pseudomembranes exclusively on colonic polyps.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Pseudomembranous colitis is most commonly caused by Clostridium difficile infection.
  • Endoscopic findings usually involve diffuse yellowish plaques throughout the colon.
  • Localization exclusively over polyps is an unreported phenomenon.

Observation:

  • A patient presented with symptoms suggestive of C. difficile infection.
  • Colonoscopy revealed small polyps with whitish surfaces.
  • Histopathology confirmed these to be pseudomembranes overlying tubular adenomas.

Findings:

  • The pseudomembranes were exclusively found on colonic polyps.
  • The rest of the colonic mucosa appeared normal.
  • No other causative factors for colitis were identified.

Implications:

  • This suggests a potential unique affinity of C. difficile or its toxins for dysplastic colonic cells.
  • Highlights the importance of thorough histopathological examination of polyps in suspected C. difficile cases.
  • May influence diagnostic approaches and understanding of C. difficile pathogenesis in specific colonic conditions.
Keywords:
Adenomatous polypsAntibiotic-associated colitisClostridium difficileClostridium difficile infectionsPseudomembranous colitis

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