Clostridium septicum and malignancy

• Published in: ANZ journal of surgery 2001-11, Vol.71 (11), p.647-649
• Main Authors: Chew, Simon S. B., Lubowski, David Z.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Clostridium - isolation & purification; Clostridium Infections - epidemiology; Clostridium septicum; colon cancer; Colorectal Neoplasms - microbiology; Female; Hematologic Neoplasms - microbiology; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Rectal Fistula - microbiology; Retrospective Studies; Urethral Diseases - microbiology; Urinary Fistula - microbiology
• ISSN: 1445-1433; 1445-2197
• DOI: 10.1046/j.1445-1433.2001.02231.x

Background:  Clostridium septicum is known to be associated with malignancy or immunosuppression. It has a variable clinical presentation and is associated with a high mortality. The aim of the present study was to review the experience at St George Hospital, Sydney, over a 10‐year period, with particular reference to the association of this condition with colorectal cancer. Methods:  The records of five patients with blood culture‐proven Clostridium septicum infection, among a larger group of 31 patients with clostridial infections, presenting to St George Hospital between 1990 and 2000 were reviewed. Results:  Associated malignancy was found in four (80%) of the patients with Clostridium septicum infection. Two infections were related to colorectal cancer, two to haematological malignancies and one to radiation‐induced recto‐urethral fistula. Those patients who had colorectal cancer presented with septicaemia and vague abdominal symptoms. Conclusions:  Clostridium septicum infections have a strong association with malignancy. When this infection occurs without an obvious underlying aetiology there should be a high index of suspicion about associated malignancy. In the absence of haematol­ogical malignancy a colonoscopy is warranted. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment is essential in order to improve prognosis.