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Mycophenolate-Induced Colitis: A Rare Side Effect
Baha Aldeen Bani Fawwaz1, Ahmad Aldwairy2, Aimen Farooq1
1Internal Medicine, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, USA.
Abstract:
Mycophenolic acid (MPA) is a well-known immunosuppressive medication that is widely used in solid organ transplant recipients. This medication is known to have various gastrointestinal (GI) side effects. Some of those side effects are simple and temporary like nausea; on the other hand, it can also lead to more serious side effects like colitis. We herein report a case of MPA-induced colitis that presented with severe diarrhea. Unexpectedly, the endoscopic appearance of the colon was normal. Moreover, pathology findings were nonspecific. Symptoms had resolved after discontinuation of the medication. MPA-induced colitis is a rare side effect with no established guidelines for management or treatment. Furthermore, the nonspecific endoscopic and microscopic findings make it a diagnostic dilemma.
Insights
Mycophenolic acid (MPA) can cause colitis, a rare gastrointestinal side effect in transplant patients. Symptoms resolved after stopping MPA, despite normal colonoscopy and biopsy results.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
- Transplant Medicine
Background:
- Mycophenolic acid (MPA) is a crucial immunosuppressant for solid organ transplant recipients.
- Gastrointestinal (GI) adverse effects are common with MPA, ranging from mild nausea to severe colitis.
Observation:
- This report details a case of severe diarrhea caused by MPA-induced colitis.
- Diagnostic challenges arose due to a normal endoscopic appearance and nonspecific pathology findings.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of MPA led to the complete resolution of colitis symptoms.
- MPA-induced colitis is a rare complication with unclear management strategies.
Implications:
- Highlights the need for increased clinical suspicion for MPA-induced colitis, even with atypical findings.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering medication side effects in transplant patients presenting with GI distress.
- Suggests MPA cessation as a primary treatment modality for suspected MPA-induced colitis.
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