Campylobacter infection masquerading as ulcerative colitis

A 24-year-old woman noted erythematous tender nodules on her extremities and temporal areas while being treated for Campylobacter-positive colitis. Histologic examination showed groups of inflammatory cells in the subcutaneous tissue and dermis around pilosebaceous follicles and sweat glands. The diagnosis of nonspecific, chronic dermatitis and panniculitis was made. The cutaneous lesions improved with the administration of tetracycline, Azulfidine, and adrenocorticotropic hormone, after which a negative culture for Campylobacter was obtained. Campylobacter colitis may stimulate ulcerative colitis.