Gastrointestinal manifestations of leukemia
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 10/04/2011
Ebert EC et al. – Distension of bowel leads to mucosal breaches, permitting entry of organisms that grow profusely in the absence of neutrophils. Ischemic necrosis follows, leading to perforation and/or peritonitis. Patients present with fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension and tenderness. Ultrasound and CT scans show thickening of bowel wall. Treatment is supportive with surgery for necrosis and perforation.
