Clostridium septicum aortitis with synchronous ascending colon and rectal adenocarcinoma

Ann Gastroenterol. 2017;30(4):468-470. doi: 10.20524/aog.2017.0140. Epub 2017 Mar 28.

Abstract

Clostridium septicum (C. septicum) aortitis is a rare condition frequently associated with colon adenocarcinoma and carries a poor prognosis. We report the case of a 66-year-old man who presented with abdominal pain, blood in the stool, fever and chills. Laboratory tests were significant for leukocytosis and microcytic anemia. Abdominal imaging revealed a right colon mass and aortitis. Colonoscopy confirmed the right colon mass and also discovered a rectal mass, both adenocarcinomas. Treatment consisted of antibiotics, aortic repair, right hemi-colectomy and later trans-anal excision of the rectal mass. Blood cultures and the aortic specimen grew C. septicum. The patient improved and was doing well in follow up.

Keywords: Clostridium septicum; aortitis; colorectal adenocarcinoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports