Fulminant clostridium difficile enteritis causing abdominal compartment syndrome

Hue Thai, Alfredo D. Guerron, Kalman P. Bencsath, Xiuli Liu, Michele Loor

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: Clostridium difficile infection of the small bowel, or C. difficile enteritis (CDE), is an uncommon condition. Cases reported previously have been described in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), compromised immune systems, or a history of colectomy or small bowel surgery. Case Description: We present a case of fulminant CDE causing abdominal compartment syndrome following a routine outpatient inguinal hernia repair. This patient developed multiple organ failure dysfunction syndrome requiring surgical abdominal decompression and a small bowel resection. This case highlights the challenges in the diagnosis of CDE, particularly in patients with intact colons and unusual presentations. Discussion: A high index of suspicion is required, as early recognition of CDE is essential in reducing morbidity and mortality. This case report is followed by a review of the current literature on CDE, with a focus on the complexities inherent in the identification of this problem and the decision-making process for surgical intervention.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)821-825
Number of pages5
JournalSurgical infections
Volume15
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1 2014

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. 2014.

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