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Purulent rectal discharge associated with a nontreponemal spirochete
JAMA
|January 5, 1979
Summary
A novel nontreponemal spirochete was identified in a patient with chronic rectal discharge. Penicillin G benzathine treatment led to symptom resolution, suggesting a potential new cause of proctitis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Proctology
Background:
- Chronic purulent rectal discharge can present diagnostic challenges.
- Exclusion of common infectious etiologies is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Observation:
- A nontreponemal spirochete was isolated from a homosexual male patient presenting with chronic purulent rectal discharge.
- Standard infectious causes for the discharge were ruled out through diagnostic testing.
Findings:
- The isolated spirochete's pathogenicity was not definitively proven.
- The patient experienced rapid symptom resolution after receiving penicillin G benzathine therapy.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential role for previously unidentified nontreponemal spirochetes in causing proctitis.
- Healthcare providers should consider Gram's-stained smears for spiral-shaped organisms when rectal discharge cultures, excluding Neisseria gonorrhoeae, are negative.