Campylobacter-associated enterocolitis in childhood. Report of a fatal case.
The full clinical range of Campylobacter fetus enterocolitis has become apparent only recently. This case study describes the clinical and pathologic findings in a chronically ill child who developed signs of inflammatory bowel disease. Following a negative bacteriologic culture, Crohn's disease was diagnosed by roentgenographic criteria. A trial of immunosuppressive therapy failed, and a repeat of microbiologic examination identified a heavy growth of Campylobacter fetus ss. jejuni. Various complications developed and the patient died with a coagulopathy and a widespread enterocolitis. The role of the Campylobacter in this clinical setting of inflammatory bowel disease is discussed in light of current understanding.
D002169:Campylobacter Infections / Q000473:pathology*; D002168:Campylobacter fetus; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004761:Enterocolitis, Pseudomembranous / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007165:Immunosuppression Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D007422:Intestines / Q000473:pathology