Typhlitis

Basics

Description

  • A necrotizing, inflammatory condition originating in the cecum with potential extension to the ascending colon, appendix, and terminal ileum
  • Also referred to as:
    • Neutropenic enterocolitis
    • Neutropenic colitis
    • Necrotizing colitis
    • Ileocecal syndrome
    • Cecitis
    • Typhlenteritis
  • Higher incidence in children
  • Mortality rate of 30–50%
  • Associated with immunosuppression, severe neutropenia, and intestinal mucosal injury
  • Characterized by bowel wall edema, ulceration, and hemorrhage

Epidemiology

  • Incidence rate of 0.8–26% likely due to variable presentation, age, and comorbidities

Etiology

  • Pathogenesis is not completely understood
  • Leading theory describes translocation of gut bacteria through injured intestinal mucosa
  • Pathogens include Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella spp in addition to various viruses and fungi

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