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A Genetically Engineered Mouse Model of Sporadic Colorectal Cancer
Published on: July 6, 2017
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Deadly combination: Clostridium septicum and colorectal malignancy
Carolyn Cullinane1, Helen Earley1, Shona Tormey2
1General Surgery, University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Limerick, Ireland.
BMJ Case Reports
|December 4, 2017
Summary
Gas gangrene, a severe infection, can rarely signal underlying colorectal cancer. This case highlights Clostridium septicum infection presenting initially as gas gangrene, revealing a colonic malignancy.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Gas gangrene is a serious necrotizing soft tissue infection.
- Colorectal malignancy is an uncommon but serious cause of gas gangrene.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old male presented with symptoms of small bowel obstruction.
- Imaging revealed signs of small bowel obstruction, caecal thickening, and subcutaneous emphysema.
- Clinical examination confirmed gas gangrene, leading to immediate surgical intervention.
Findings:
- Tissue cultures identified Clostridium septicum as the causative agent.
- The patient experienced a complex postoperative recovery.
- Subsequent colonoscopy indicated a suspicious colonic malignancy.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering occult malignancy in patients presenting with gas gangrene.
- Early recognition and management of Clostridium septicum infections are critical.
- Prompt surgical debridement and oncological workup are essential for favorable outcomes.
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