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Pseudomembranous colitis. Treatment by metronidazole
Hepato-Gastroenterology
|April 1, 1981
Summary
Pseudomembranous colitis (PMC) linked to antibiotic use and surgery presents with severe diarrhea and abdominal pain. Metronidazole treatment showed a good response in most patients, with a high recovery rate.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Pseudomembranous colitis (PMC) is a serious gastrointestinal condition often associated with antibiotic therapy.
- Antibiotic-induced PMC can manifest following various medical interventions, including major surgery and treatment for inflammatory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes of nine patients with pseudomembranous colitis.
- To evaluate the efficacy of metronidazole in managing antibiotic-associated PMC.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of nine cases of pseudomembranous colitis over a 20-month period.
- Diagnosis confirmed via rectosigmoidoscopy and histological examination.
- Treatment administered included metronidazole at 1.5 grams daily.
Main Results:
- All nine patients had a history of antibiotic use, with five receiving lincomycin.
- Common symptoms included acute diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and dehydration.
- Metronidazole treatment resulted in a good response, with eight out of nine patients making a full recovery.
Conclusions:
- Pseudomembranous colitis is a significant complication of antibiotic therapy and certain surgical procedures.
- Metronidazole is an effective treatment for pseudomembranous colitis, leading to favorable patient outcomes.