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Antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous enteritis due to Clostridium difficile
B Tsutaoka1, J Hansen, D Johnson
1Pharmacy Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Palo Alto, California 94304.
Abstract:
Although pseudomembranous colitis is relatively common following antibiotic exposure, there have been few reported cases of pseudomembrane formation involving the small intestine. Herein we report a case of pseudomembranous enteritis of the small and large intestine that occurred after antibiotic exposure. The etiologic organism appears to be Clostridium difficile, as evidenced by the characteristic pseudomembranous lesions and a positive ELISA for toxin A in an ileal tissue specimen.
Insights
Pseudomembranous enteritis, a rare condition affecting the small and large intestines, can occur after antibiotic use. This case highlights Clostridium difficile as the likely cause, identified by characteristic lesions and toxin A.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pseudomembranous colitis is a known complication of antibiotic therapy.
- Small intestinal involvement in pseudomembranous disease is infrequently reported.
Observation:
- A patient developed pseudomembranous enteritis affecting both the small and large intestines.
- The condition arose subsequent to antibiotic exposure.
Findings:
- Characteristic pseudomembranous lesions were observed.
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for Clostridium difficile toxin A in an ileal tissue specimen was positive.
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of Clostridium difficile infection.
- Highlights the importance of considering small intestinal involvement in antibiotic-associated enteritis.
- Suggests Clostridium difficile as a potential cause of pseudomembranous enteritis.