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Colonic infiltration with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia

Abstract

Background A 75-year-old female presented with a 1 month history of nonbloody diarrhea, associated with abdominal cramping and urgency. Her medical history was notable for chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, diagnosed 6 years previously and managed expectantly by monitoring the patient's complete blood count. Over several months, the patient's symptoms progressed, which resulted in significant weight loss. The patient's course of disease was ultimately complicated by acute disseminated encephalomyelitis and death.

Investigations Physical examination, laboratory investigations, stool studies, colonoscopy with biopsies, immunohistochemistry and pathologic review of biopsy specimens.

Diagnosis Leukemic colitis

Management Management of underlying leukemia with systemic hydroxyurea and topical colonic 5-aminosalicylic acid therapy.

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Figure 1: Endoscopic image of a 75-year-old female with leukemic colitis
Figure 2: Histologic image of a 75-year-old female with leukemic colitis

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Correspondence to David T Rubin.

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The authors declare no competing financial interests.

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LoSavio, A., Bunnag, A. & Rubin, D. Colonic infiltration with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 4, 229–233 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1038/ncpgasthep0771

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