Clostridium septicum Sepsis and Colon Carcinoma: Report of 4 Cases
2011
Clostridium septicum Sepsis and Colon Cancer: 4 Case Reports
Sample size: 4
publication
Evidence: low
Author Information
Author(s): Mao Eric, Clements Aine, Feller Edward
Primary Institution: The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
Hypothesis
Is there an association between Clostridium septicum infection and colon carcinoma?
Conclusion
C. septicum infection can be a presenting feature of previously undiagnosed colon cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- 4 out of 15 cases of C. septicum sepsis were associated with colon carcinoma.
- C. septicum infection was the first sign of cancer in 3 patients.
- Symptoms of C. septicum infection can be nonspecific and misleading.
Takeaway
If someone has a blood infection from a germ called C. septicum, doctors should check for colon cancer because it might be hiding.
Methodology
Retrospective review of blood cultures for C. septicum over 4 years in a hospital.
Limitations
The study is based on a small sample size of 4 cases.
Participant Demographics
4 patients aged 73 to 81, including 3 men and 1 woman.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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