[Neutropenic enterocolitis in adults with acute leukemia]

Neutropenic enterocolitis, also known as typhlitis or ileocecal syndrome, in leukemic patients undergoing chemotherapy has a high reported mortality. A recent increase in the incidence of neutropenic enterocolitis is associated with aggressive chemotherapy for acute leukemia. In this report, we report the incidence, diagnosis, and treatment of neutropenic enterocolitis during low-dose DCMP and high-dose DCMP regimen for 95 adults with acute nonlymphocytic leukemia, and review the literature pertaining appropriate medical and surgical management, and method of prevention. Finally we propose the favorable results of gut sterilization for the treatment and prevention of the disease.