Severe hemorrhage from cytomegalovirus rectal ulcers in a burned adult

Clinically evident gastrointestinal involvement by cytomegalovirus has been amply documented in various immunocompromised states with the notable exception of burns. A 44-yr-old man, having sustained 40% burn, who developed severe bleeding from rectal ulcers at the time of a primary cytomegalovirus infection is described. Evidence is provided, implicating cytomegalovirus as the responsible pathogen. We suggest that cytomegalovirus infection should be included in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal bleeding occurring in a burned patient. In that case, bleeding can occur from any part of the gastrointestinal tract.