Neutropenic enterocolitis

Neutropenic enterocolitis is a medical condition that primarily affects individuals with neutropenia, a condition characterized by an abnormally low count of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight off infections. It is also known as typhlitis, a term that specifically refers to inflammation of the cecum.

Symptoms

The symptoms of neutropenic enterocolitis can vary, but often include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, and nausea. In severe cases, the condition can lead to life-threatening complications such as sepsis and intestinal perforation.

Causes

Neutropenic enterocolitis is typically caused by a combination of factors, including a weakened immune system due to neutropenia, damage to the intestinal lining from chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of neutropenic enterocolitis is often challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms and the fact that it primarily affects individuals who are already seriously ill. It is typically diagnosed based on a combination of clinical symptoms, laboratory tests, and imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) scans.

Treatment

Treatment for neutropenic enterocolitis typically involves a combination of antibiotics to treat any underlying infection, medications to manage symptoms, and in severe cases, surgery to remove the affected portion of the intestine.

See also

• Neutropenia
• Enterocolitis
• Sepsis
• Intestinal perforation

References

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Neutropenic enterocolitis

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  Diagram of the stomach, colon, and rectum