Pseudomembranous colitis in a patient treated with paclitaxel for carcinoma of the breast: a case report
Ang, P.; Cheong, W.K.; Khoo, K.S.
Annals of the Academy of Medicine Singapore 29(1): 132-134
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0304-4602 PMID: 10748982 Document Number: 1864
Introduction: The concomitant antimicrobial properties of antineoplastic agents may play a role in causing pseudomembranous colitis, which has been documented for cisplatin, cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil. Clinical Picture: We describe the first case reported in the English literature of severe pseudomembranous colitis occurring in a patient given paclitaxel as adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer. There was no prior antibiotic therapy. Stool culture confirmed Clostridium difficile. Treatment: Oral vancomycin, metronidazole and cholestyramine led to prompt improvement of intestinal symptoms, which resolved in two weeks. Outcome: Repeat colonoscopy performed 3 months later showed total resolution of the colitis. Conclusions: Awareness of pseudomembranous colitis after paclitaxel chemotherapy call avert life-threatening complications.
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