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Antibiotic-associated haemorrhagic colitis
A M Miller1, M L Bassett, J E Dahlstrom
1Gastroenterology Unit, The Canberra Hospital, Australia.
Abstract:
Antibiotic-associated haemorrhagic colitis is an uncommon cause of bloody diarrhoea in patients taking penicillin or penicillin-related antibiotics. Symptoms of abdominal pain and bloody diarrhoea occur within 1 week of antibiotic use and resolve without specific therapy within days of discontinuing the offending antibiotic. There is an apparent increased incidence of the disease in patients of Oriental ethnicity. The pathogenesis is unknown. We present two cases of haemorrhagic colitis in patients taking penicillin-related antibiotics who presented within 4 months of each other. One of the patients was being treated for Helicobacter pylori infection. The published literature is reviewed with particular emphasis on the histology and pathogenesis of the condition.
Insights
Antibiotic-associated haemorrhagic colitis, a rare cause of bloody diarrhea linked to penicillin antibiotics, typically resolves after drug cessation. This review highlights its occurrence and unknown pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antibiotic-associated haemorrhagic colitis is an uncommon gastrointestinal condition.
- It is associated with the use of penicillin and related antibiotics.
Observation:
- Symptoms include abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea within one week of antibiotic initiation.
- The condition appears more prevalent in patients of Oriental ethnicity.
- Two cases are presented, one treated for Helicobacter pylori infection.
Findings:
- The pathogenesis of antibiotic-associated haemorrhagic colitis remains unknown.
- Histological findings and pathogenesis are reviewed in the literature.
Implications:
- Early recognition and discontinuation of the offending antibiotic are crucial for resolution.
- Further research into the pathogenesis may elucidate preventative strategies.