Fulminant amoebic colitis: a challenging diagnosis for the surgeon.

Abstract

Fulminant amoebic colitis is a rare complication of amoebiasis that carries a high mortality rate. Its diagnosis is challenging and requires a high index of suspicion, and its early recognition is a priority to provide timely medical and surgical treatment. We present the case of a male patient who came to the emergency department with unspecific clinical presentation of abdominal pain, systemic inflammatory response and imaging study showing intestinal perforation of the right colon. Fecal peritonitis and perforation at the level of the hepatic flexure were observed, so a right hemicolectomy with terminal ileostomy was performed. Despite adequate medical and surgical treatment, the patient presented progressive deterioration and died. Colon perforation due to Entamoeba histolytica was the final diagnosis.