How is neutropenic colitis treated?
The diagnosis usually results from findings on abdominal CT in a patient with concerning signs or symptoms of neutropenic enterocolitis. Limited evidence exists regarding the treatment of NEC. Treatment primarily consists of IV antibiotics with bowel rest. Surgery is considered, if needed, for complications.
What is neutropenic enterocolitis?
Neutropenic enterocolitis, also known as typhlitis (from Greek typhlon [“blind”], referring to the cecum), is an acute life-threatening condition classically characterized by transmural inflammation of the cecum, often with involvement of the ascending colon and ileum, in patients who are severely myelosuppressed.
How is typhlitis diagnosed?
The most reliable way to diagnose typhlitis is through computed tomography (CT) scans. Your doctor will listen to your symptoms and do a physical exam. You will also have blood tests and imaging studies.
Does neutropenia cause stomach pain?
Reports of neutrophil counts < 1000/μL) have also been published[22]. The most common symptoms of NE are abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever[23-25]. Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distension are also common symptoms. Abdominal pain can be localized in the lower right quadrant or can be more diffuse.
What are the symptoms of enterocolitis?
The common signs and symptoms of Enterocolitis include:
- Diarrhea.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Loss of appetite.
- Abdominal cramps and pain.
- Pain, bleeding, or mucus-like discharge from the rectum.
- Fever.
- Tiredness.
- Swollen abdomen.
How can typhlitis be treated?
Typhlitis is a medical emergency and requires treatment right away. Doctors haven’t yet determined the best way to manage typhlitis. Currently, treatment involves prompt administration of IV antibiotics, general supportive care (such as intravenous fluids and pain relief), and bowel rest.
How is typhlitis treated?
What is typhlitis mean?
Typhlitis refers to a clinical syndrome of fever and right lower quadrant tenderness in a neutropenic patient after cytotoxic chemotherapy. Typhlitis (from the Greek word typhlon, meaning cecum) is also referred to as neutropenic colitis,64,65 necrotizing colitis,66 ileocecal syndrome, or cecitis.
Is severe neutropenia life-threatening?
Severe neutropenia (ANC below 500) is always a concern because of the increased risk for bacterial infections. ANC is below 200 dangerous and life-threatening infections can occur. Some of these include: pneumonia, meningitis, blood poisoning or septic shock.
Can you cure enterocolitis?
Ulcerative colitis can be debilitating and can sometimes lead to life-threatening complications. While it has no known cure, treatment can greatly reduce signs and symptoms of the disease and bring about long-term remission.