The Turkish Journal of Pediatrics 2003 , Vol 45 , Num 3
Successful medical management of neutropenic enterocolitis (typhlitis) in a child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Department of Pediatrics, Başkent University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey

Abstract

We report a case of acute lymphoblastic leukemia that was complicated by neutropenic enterocolitis (typhlitis) during the initial period of remissioninduction chemotherapy. The patients clinical symptoms resolved after aggressive treatment with intravenous fluids and electrolytes, nasogastric decompression, bowel rest, total parenteral nutrition, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. Netropenic enterocolitis should always be considered in neutropenic leukemic children with the triad of fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Gastrointestinal hemorrhage may also accompany the symptoms described above. Plain roentgenogram, ultrasonography and computed tomography of the abdomen are helpful for making the diagnosis of this clinical condition. Early recognition and proper medical management of neutropenic enterocolitis may prevent the need for surgical intervention, and/or be life-saving.

Keywords : acute lymphoblastic leukemia neutropenic enterocolitis medical management
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