Intestinal Spirochetosis and Chronic Diarrhea: A Case Report and Literature Review

Cureus. 2023 Jun 11;15(6):e40276. doi: 10.7759/cureus.40276. eCollection 2023 Jun.

Abstract

Spirochetosis is a rare condition characterized by the presence of spirochetes in the gastrointestinal tract. It is typically associated with immunodeficiency. We present a case of chronic watery diarrhea in a 48-year-old housewife who had a 12-week history of variable-volume bowel movements without blood or mucus, accompanied by a sense of urgency. Chronic diarrhea led to weight loss and fatigue, significantly impacting her quality of life. Despite the absence of known risk factors, a comprehensive clinical evaluation and exclusion of other potential causes prompted a rectosigmoid biopsy, which revealed distinctive histological findings of spirochetosis. This case underscores the significance of considering spirochetosis as a differential diagnosis in cases of chronic watery diarrhea, even in the absence of immunodeficiency. The utilization of rectosigmoid biopsy and careful histopathological examination played a pivotal role in establishing an accurate diagnosis.

Keywords: chronic watery diarrhea; histopathology; non-immunodeficient; rectosigmoid biopsy; spirochetosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports