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EBV-associated colitis mimicking IBD in an immunocompetent individual

Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology volume 8, pages 50–54 (2011)Cite this article

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Abstract

Background. A 30-year-old immunocompetent male with an unremarkable medical history presented with 2 months of lower abdominal bloating and loose, bloody, mucoid bowel movements. He was clinically suspected to have IBD. Due to the progression of his symptoms, he ultimately required hospitalization for further investigation and care.

Investigations. Full medical history and physical examination, routine blood analyses, stool studies, hepatitis serologic tests, abdominal CT, colonoscopy, PCR analysis and light microscopy and immunoperoxidase staining of colonic biopsy samples.

Diagnosis. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)-associated lymphoproliferative disorder with diffuse colonic involvement (EBV colitis) in an immunocompetent adult.

Management. Inpatient supportive care.

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Figure 1: Endoscopic images of the transverse colon.
Figure 2: Histologic images of the colonic mucosa.
Figure 3

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Cary Porapatich. Written consent for publication was obtained from the patient. C. P. Vega, University of California, Irvine, CA, is the author of and is solely responsible for the content of the learning objectives, questions and answers of the MedscapeCME-accredited continuing medical education activity associated with this article.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, SL35, New Orleans, 70112, LA, USA

    Jordan J. Karlitz & Matthew C. Rice

  2. Georgetown University School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, 20057, DC, USA

    S. Tammy Li

  3. Virginia Hospital Center, 1635 N, George Mason Drive, Suite #180, Arlington, 22205, VA, USA

    Robert P. Holman

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  1. Jordan J. Karlitz
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All authors contributed equally to researching data for the article, discussion of the content, writing the article and to review and/or editing of the manuscript before submission.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Matthew C. Rice.

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The authors declare no competing financial interests.

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Karlitz, J., Li, S., Holman, R. et al. EBV-associated colitis mimicking IBD in an immunocompetent individual. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 8, 50–54 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrgastro.2010.192

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