Cytomegalovirus colitis in an older woman, successfully treated with ganciclovir
Coll, P.P.; Pacala, J.T.; Hamilton, C.W.
Journal of Family Practice 34(6): 772-775
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0094-3509 PMID: 1317403 Document Number: 392295
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections are usually found in immunocompromised persons and rarely present in those who are immunocompetent. We report a case of CMV colitis in an elderly woman presenting with delirium, prolonged fever, and diarrhea. Treatment with ganciclovir, an antiviral agent, resulted in resolution of the colitis within 3 weeks without noticeable side effects. Older adults may be more susceptible to CMV infection by virtue of age-related changes in immune function. The possibility of CMV colitis should be considered in an elderly person with persistent fever, diarrhea, and negative stool cultures.