Cytomegalovirus Colitis
Description
Cytomegalovirus colitis is a colon inflammation due to infection with cytomegalovirus. It is a common viral infection in 50% to 100% of humans globally. The majority of cases of cytomegalovirus (CMV) colitis are seen in immunocompromised patients (such as those who have undergone solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplants, those who have HIV infection, and those who use immunosuppressive drugs like steroids or chemotherapeutic agents). However, healthy individuals without immunodeficiency can still develop colitis. The median age of these individuals is typically 68 years, and they also frequently have abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and diarrhea. The outcomes are often promising, with approximately 25% of these individuals experiencing remission without antiviral therapy.
Symptoms
- Rectal bleeding
- Black stool
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
If you experience any of these symptoms, visit a General Practice doctor (General Practitioner) or Gastroenterologist.
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View MoreCauses
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) colitis risk is increased by any factor that lowers a patient's immunity :
- Adults older than 68 years
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
- Steroid therapy and therapy with other immunosuppressive medications
- Transplantation patients
- Hemodialysis
- Cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Treatment
Antiviral drug (such as: ganciclovir, foscarnet)
