Recurrent Diverticulitis in a Neutropenic Patient: A Case Report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.38179/ijcr.v2i1.29Keywords:
Acute Myeloid Leukemia, diverticulitis, neutropenic fever, abdominal pain, sepsisAbstract
Background: Neutropenic patients are at an increased risk of infections. These infections can originate from several sites including the respiratory, urinary or gastrointestinal systems. Diverticulitis is one such infection, that carries a high morbidity and mortality risk in such patients. The management remains controversial and involves deciding between a conservative medical approach and surgical intervention. Regardless, these patients should be closely monitored due to a high risk of developing complications including septic shock.
Case Report: In this article, we discuss the case of a patient with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) presenting with neutropenic fever and found to have a recurrent episode of diverticulitis. The patient was quickly managed with medical therapy, and surgery was therefore deferred.
Conclusion: In conclusion, physicians should always maintain diverticulitis as a differential diagnosis in neutropenic patients who present with abdominal pain, especially in those who have had a previous episode. This allows for rapid and more efficient management.
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