Pseudomembranous colitis

Case contributed by Bruno Di Muzio
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Two days of diarrhea, fever and abdominal pain.

Patient Data

Age: 55 years
Gender: Female

CT Abdomen and pelvis

ct

Diffuse subcutaneous edema, ascites, pleural effusion and diffuse colonic wall thickening. 

Case Discussion

This case shows pancolitis with marked mucosal edema.

The diagnosis of Clostridioides difficile colitis was confirmed. 

This infection is usually preceded by antibiotic use or chemotherapy and is therefore usually encountered in unwell, hospitalized patients with significant comorbidities. Cephalosporins are often the predisposing antibiotic.

The transverse colon appearance is characteristic - termed the accordion sign.

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