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Colonic Perforation as Initial Presentation of Amyloid Disease: Case Report and Literature Review
A Ussia1, S Vaccari1, A Lauro2
1Department of Emergency Surgery, St. Orsola University Hospital, Bologna, Italy.
Introduction:
Amyloidosis is an uncommon disease caused by the deposition of amyloid fibrils in tissues. This disease does not usually require surgical intervention, which could be warranted in the presence of complications such as bleeding, obstruction, or perforation. We present a case of primary amyloidosis of the colon in a patient affected by polymyositis who underwent Hartmann's procedure after a spontaneous colonic perforation. After 2 months of well-being, the patient underwent two consecutive surgical procedures for stenosis of the ostomy orifice.
Areas Covered:
A review of the literature has been performed, gathering case reports highlighting the distribution of this disease by age, gender, location, and treatment when available.
Expert Commentary:
Gastrointestinal amyloid disease is a rare condition, and it could be considered among the rare causes of intestinal perforation. Timely surgical management is often necessary.
Insights
Primary amyloidosis of the colon is rare and can cause spontaneous intestinal perforation, necessitating surgical intervention. This case highlights potential complications like ostomy stenosis requiring further procedures.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Amyloidosis is characterized by amyloid fibril deposition in tissues, rarely requiring surgery unless complications arise.
- Primary amyloidosis of the colon is an uncommon manifestation of this systemic disease.
Observation:
- A patient with polymyositis and primary colon amyloidosis presented with spontaneous colonic perforation.
- The patient underwent a Hartmann's procedure for the perforation.
Findings:
- Following the initial surgery, the patient experienced a 2-month period of well-being.
- The patient subsequently required two additional surgical procedures due to stenosis of the ostomy orifice.
Implications:
- Gastrointestinal amyloid disease is a rare cause of intestinal perforation, emphasizing the need for timely surgical management.
- This case underscores potential postoperative complications in patients with amyloidosis, such as ostomy-related issues.
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