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[Neutropenic enterocolitis]
G Rexroth1, H M Altmannsberger, E O Hassenstein
1Medizinische Klinik, Krankenhauses Nordwest, Frankfurt/M.
Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie
|April 9, 1998
Summary
Neutropenic colitis, a complication of cancer treatment, can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Early diagnosis and conservative management are key for successful outcomes in patients with lung cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the lung requires aggressive treatment.
- Chemotherapy (paclitaxel) and radiation therapy are common treatment modalities.
- Gastrointestinal side effects are frequent during cancer therapy.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing paclitaxel and radiation therapy presented with fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
- Sigmoidoscopy was performed to rule out pseudomembranous colitis.
- The procedure revealed multiple mucosal petechiae in the colon.
Findings:
- Histologic examination confirmed neutropenic colitis.
- Neutropenic colitis is an inflammation of the colon associated with a low neutrophil count.
- This condition is a known complication in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Implications:
- Neutropenic colitis requires prompt recognition and management.
- Conservative treatment approaches can be effective.
- Understanding this complication is crucial for patient care in oncology settings.