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Colitis and pseudomembranous colitis associated with cephazolin prophylaxis
The American Surgeon
|June 1, 1979
Summary
Cephalexin therapy can cause colitis, a serious condition characterized by severe diarrhea. Promptly stopping the antibiotic and providing supportive care can lead to patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Cephalexin, a common antibiotic, has been rarely associated with gastrointestinal side effects.
- Colitis, an inflammation of the colon, can manifest with severe symptoms and requires prompt diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- Three surgically treated patients with complex medical histories developed severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and leukocytosis during cephalexin therapy.
- Stool cultures were negative, and one patient presented with a pseudomembrane, indicative of C. difficile infection, though this was not confirmed in all cases.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of cephalexin, coupled with bowel rest and intravenous hydration, resulted in the recovery of all three patients.
- The clinical presentation, including profuse diarrhea and negative stool cultures, strongly suggested antibiotic-associated colitis.
Implications:
- This case series highlights the importance of considering cephalexin-induced colitis in patients presenting with severe diarrhea during antibiotic treatment.
- Early recognition and intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes in antibiotic-associated colitis.
- Further research may elucidate the precise mechanisms and incidence of cephalexin-associated colitis.