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Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, pseudomembranous colitis, and spinal cord injury
Abstract:
Antibiotic-associated colitis (pseudomembranous colitis) developed in four patients with spinal cord injury and taking oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. One hundred forty-eight (59%) of 251 patients with spinal cord injury who were evaluated had received this drug. Two of the four patients with pseudomembranous colitis did not promptly respond to therapy, and all four suffered significant further immobilization because of the disease. Pseudomembranous colitis readily occurs in at least certain population groups receiving trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
Insights
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole can cause antibiotic-associated colitis, also known as pseudomembranous colitis, in patients with spinal cord injury. This condition led to further immobilization in affected individuals.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Spinal cord injury patients often require prophylactic or therapeutic antibiotic treatment.
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is a commonly prescribed antibiotic for various infections.
Observation:
- Four patients with spinal cord injury developed antibiotic-associated colitis while taking oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
- Nearly 60% of evaluated spinal cord injury patients had received this antibiotic.
Findings:
- Two patients did not respond promptly to treatment for pseudomembranous colitis.
- All four patients experienced significant worsening of immobilization due to the colitis.
Implications:
- Pseudomembranous colitis is a notable risk in spinal cord injury patients using trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
- This complication can impede recovery and increase patient morbidity.
- Clinicians should consider alternative antibiotic regimens or vigilant monitoring in this patient population.