[Pseudomembranous colitis caused by antibiotics]

Six cases of pseudomembranous colitis caused by antibiotics are presented. The endoscopic, radiological and clinical picture and the aetiopathogenesis of this unusual disease are discussed. Lincomycin was incriminated in one case only. In the remainder, various antibiotics of different chemical structure were responsible. Carcinoma of the colon was a common feature and it is suggested that a full examination of the large intestine should be made whenever this syndrome appears. While radiological suspicion may be forthcoming, pseudomembranous colitis is diagnosed only by endoscopy and biopsy.