Previously Unreported Pseudomembranous Duodenitis: A Case Report With Histopathology

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pathology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Pseudomembranous inflammatory process, often linked to Clostridium difficile toxins, typically affects the colon.
• While duodenitis and jejunitis have been reported in horses, human cases are exceedingly rare.

Observation:

• A seven-year-old boy presented with severe abdominal pain and was diagnosed with pseudomembranous duodenitis.
• Endoscopic examination revealed duodenal ulceration and a characteristic white membrane.
• Initial biopsy suggested a fungal infection, but histological analysis confirmed a pseudomembranous inflammatory process.

Findings:

• Histological examination of the duodenal biopsy revealed crater-like ulceration with mucus exudation, consistent with pseudomembranous inflammation.
• The findings suggest Clostridium difficile may be implicated in this rare upper gastrointestinal manifestation.

Implications:

• This case represents the first documented instance of pseudomembranous duodenitis in a human patient.
• It highlights the potential for Clostridium difficile to cause upper gastrointestinal pseudomembranous disease, expanding its known clinical spectrum.
• Further research is warranted to understand the pathogenesis and diagnostic challenges of this condition in the duodenum.