Megacolon tóxico: A propósito de un caso / Toxic Megacolon. Case Report

RESUMEN El megacolon tóxico es una enfermedad mortal, que se presenta, con mayor frecuencia, como una complicación de la inflamación intestinal, infecciones e isquemia intestinal. Se caracteriza por la presencia de diarrea sanguinolenta, distensión abdominal, signos de toxicidad sistémica y, en estudios de imagen, se observa dilatación colónica segmentaria. Para el diagnóstico, según los criterios de Jalan, se tiene en cuenta la dilatación colónica más de 6 cm, tres de los siguientes: fiebre, taquicardia, leucocitosis o anemia, y cualquiera de los siguientes criterios: hipotensión, hipovolemia, trastorno electrolítico y estado mental alterado. En este artículo, se presenta el caso de una paciente mujer que ingresa por cuadro de dolor abdominal y diarrea crónica con estudio de imagen, en la que se visualiza dilatación de todo el marco colónico. Se realizan los estudios correspondientes y se diagnostica megacolon tóxico por colitis ulcerativa, por lo que recibe tratamiento médico con evolución favorable. Es dado de alta y reingresa por shock séptico, se realizan estudios y se identifica infección por Clostridium difficile. Se inicia tratamiento antibiótico, pero presenta evolución desfavorable, lo que ocasionó el fallecimiento de la paciente. El presente caso representa la alta mortalidad de esta enfermedad.

ABSTRACT Toxic megacolon is a fatal disease, most commonly occurring as a complication of inflammatory bowel disease, infections, and intestinal ischemia. It is characterized by the presence of bloody diarrhea, abdominal distension, signs of systemic toxicity, and segmental colonic dilation is observed in imaging studies. For the diagnosis, according to the Jalan criteria, colonic dilation of more than 6 cm is taken into account, three of the following: fever, tachycardia, leukocytosis or anemia, and any of the following criteria: hypotension, hypovolemia, electrolyte disorder and altered mental status. This article presents the case of a female patient who was admitted with abdominal pain and chronic diarrhea with an imaging study showing dilation of the entire colonic framework. The corresponding studies were carried out which indicated that she had a toxic megacolon due to colitis. ulcerative, receives medical treatment with favorable evolution, is discharged and readmitted for septic shock, studies are performed and Clostridium difficile infection is identified, antibiotic treatment is started but the evolution is unfavorable, which caused the death of the patient. The present case represents the high mortality of this disease.

A case report of a pediatric patient with Hirschsprung’s disease

The objective is to describe an uncommon case of Hirschsprung's disease (HD), also called congenital megacolon. The lack of neuronal ganglion cells from the submucosal and muscular nerve plexuses throughout a segment of varied length characterizes HD. Approx 94% of HD cases are diagnosed below the age of 5 years. A 3 years old male patient was admitted to the male surgery ward under a pediatric surgeon with the chief complaints of chronic constipation since birth with a history of delayed passage of meconium. The patient was diagnosed with a case of HD at the age of 1 year for which he was operated on colostomy was performed with multiple biopsies from narrowed rectosigmoid, from the transitional zone, and from colostomy stoma which confirmed the decision to make colostomy at the ganglionated segment of the colon based on the clinical picture during surgery. Biopsy report of narrowed rectosigmoid segment showed the absence of ganglion cells, while colostomy stoma and dilated proximal colon showed the presence of ganglion cells. The patient underwent a surgical procedure named pull-through surgery for HD, a martin's modification of the Duhamel operation.

Colonoscopic laxative instillation for the fecal-loaded colon: a case series

Context: Postoperative, critically ill, and elderly patients often have fecal loading or impaction. In a few such patients, disimpaction of fecalomas and colon cleansing are difficult. Bowel obstruction, megacolon, lower gastrointestinal bleeding, and gut perforation are complications that may ensue. Oral laxatives or enemas may only be partially effective. Surgical intervention may be needed for salvage or to treat complications. Series and Design: Fourteen hospitalized cases with defecation disorder due to fecal loading of the colon were enrolled for retrospective analysis. Colonoscopic instillation of mannitol and/or lactulose was undertaken as an intervention when the use of oral laxatives was either ineffective or unfeasible, and enema had yielded poor results. Results: Ten patients had satisfactory outcomes for fecal clearance, whereas four patients with poor or incomplete responses underwent repeat interventions or surgery. No significant complications were encountered due to this therapy. Conclusion: Colonoscopic instillation of mannitol or lactulose in fecal-loaded critically ill patients results in a safe and satisfactory fecal clearance. (AU)

Megacolon tóxico: peritonitis fecaloidea por colitis amebiana. Reporte de un caso y revisión de literatura / Toxic megacolon: fecaloid peritonitis caused by amebic colitis. Report of a case and literature review

Introducción: La amebiasis es una enfermedad causada por el parásito Entamoeba histolytica, y condiciona importantes tasas de afectación a escala global. Una de las complicaciones de la colitis amebiana es el megacolon tóxico, el cual se caracteriza por la dilatación colónica y signos de toxicidad sistémica. Aunque poco frecuente, el megacolon tóxico es considerado letal.Caso clínico : se trata de paciente femenino de 26 años, quien consulta por presentar dolor abdominal generalizado, de fuerte intensidad, tipo cólico, acompañado de náuseas y múltiples episodios eméticos. Al examen físico se precisó hemodinámicamente estable, sin signos de irritación peritoneal, por lo que es ingresada con diagnóstico de colitis amebiana. Se instaura manejo médico y es egresada por mejoría clínica. Luego de 7 días, es readmitida por deterioro clínico y distensión abdominal, realizándose diagnóstico de megacolon tóxico. Mediante laparotomía de emergencia se observa peritonitis fecaloidea difusa y perforación del ciego, se realiza hemicolectomía derecha e ileostomía terminal. Posteriormente, presenta absceso intraabdominal que fue drenado por vía percutánea. Conclusión : el megacolon tóxico es una patología infrecuente que surge como complicación de entidades como la colitis amebiana. En la actualidad, a pesar de los avances tecnológicos que han desencadenado importantes progresos en el ámbito sanitario, el diagnóstico del megacolon tóxico continúa representando un desafío para el profesional médico, por lo que la sospecha clínica es ineludible y determinante en el diagnóstico acertado y oportuno, que permiten la instauración de la terapéutica apropiada y reducción de la morbilidad y mortalidad que de esta se derivan(AU)

Introduction: Amebiasis is a disease caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica, and causes significant rates of infection on a global scale. One of the complications of amoebic colitis is toxic megacolon, which is characterized by colonic dilation and signs of systemic toxicity. Although rare, toxic megacolon is considered lethal. Clinical case: this is a 26-year-old female patient, who consults due to generalized abdominal pain, of strong intensity, colic type, accompanied by nausea and multiple emetic episodes. On physical examination she was found to be hemodynamically stable, with no signs of peritoneal irritation, so she was admitted with a diagnosis of amoebic colitis. Medical management was established and she was discharged due to clinical improvement. After 7 days, she was readmitted due to clinical deterioration and abdominal distention, and a diagnosis of toxic megacolon was made. Through emergency laparotomy, diffuse fecaloid peritonitis and perforation of the cecum were observed; right hemicolectomy and terminal ileostomy were performed. Subsequently, she developed an intra-abdominal abscess that was drained percutaneously. Conclusion: toxic megacolon is a rare pathology that arises as a complication of entities such as amoebic colitis. Currently, despite the technological advances that have triggered important progress in the healthcare field, the diagnosis of toxic megacolon continues to represent a challenge for the medical professional, which is why clinical suspicion is unavoidable and decisive in an accurate and timely diagnosis, which allow the establishment of appropriate therapy and reduction of the morbidity and mortality that arise from it(AU)

Megacolon toxico secundario a colitis pseudomembranosa, a propósito de un caso

La colitis pseudomembranosa se trata de un trastorno inflamatorio, que con el tiempo esta adquiriendo mayor importancia, esto debido al uso excesivo de antibióticos que en muchos casos se produce con mayor frecuencia en los hospitales. Morfologicamente el colon cursa con la formación de pseudomembranas, que cubre parte de la mucosa del intestino grueso. La etiología esta por dada una toxina producida por el sobrecrecimiento intestinal del microorganismo Clostridium difficele, afectando de forma típica a pacientes tratados con antibioticoterapia de amplio espectro. En el presente caso clinico, se relata una colitis pseudomembranosa en un paciente de sexo masculino de 71 años de edad, dándose énfasis en las características anatomopatologicas, debido a que en raras ocasiones se observa de forma tan elocuente, los cambios morfológicos como los observados en el presente caso.

Pseudomembranous colitis is an inflammatory disorder that is becoming more important over time, due to the excessive use of antibiotics that in many cases occurs more frequently in hospitals. Morphologically, the colon undergoes the formation of pseudomembranes, which cover part of the mucosa of the large intestine. The etiology is due to a toxin produced by the intestinal overgrowth of the microorganism Clostridium difficile, typically affecting patients treated with broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. In the present clinical case, pseudomembranous colitis is reported in a 71-year-old male patient, emphasizing the anatomopathological characteristics, because on rare occasions morphological changes are observed so eloquently as those observed in the present case.

Surgical approach of megacecum secondary to descending colon tumor / Abordagem cirúrgica de megaceco secundário a tumor de cólon descendente

Intestinal obstruction is the most frequent clinical manifestation of colon tumors, most of which are located in the descending and recto-sigmoid colon. Emergency bowel obstruction surgery is associated with high mortality and morbidity risks and the ideal approach remains controversial. Multi-stage procedures and the use of stents as bridges for surgery are promising options. A case of a 61-year-old patient with an acute obstructive abdomen secondary to colorectal neoplasm is presented, with emphasis on its diagnosis and treatmen (AU)

Obstrução intestinal é a manifestação clínica mais frequente de tumores de cólon sendo esses, em sua maioria, localizados no cólon descendente e reto-sigmoide. A cirurgia de emergência para obstrução intestinal é associada a altos riscos de mortalidade e de morbidade e a abordagem ideal permanece controversa. Procedimentos em vários estágios e o uso de stents como ponte para cirurgia são opções promissoras. É apresentado um caso de paciente de 61 anos, com abdome agudo obstrutivo secundário à neoplasia colorretal, com ênfase em seu diagnóstico e tratamento (AU)

Abordagem cirúrgica de megaceco secundário a tumor de cólon descendente / Surgical approach of megacecum secondary to descending colon tumor

RESUMO: Obstrução intestinal é a manifestação clínica mais frequente de tumores de cólon sendo esses, em sua maioria, localizados no cólon descendente e reto-sigmoide. A cirurgia de emergência para obstrução intestinal é associada a altos riscos de mortalidade e de morbidade e a abordagem ideal permanece controversa. Procedimentos em vários estágios e o uso de stents como ponte para cirurgia são opções promissoras. É apresentado um caso de paciente de 61 anos, com abdome agudo obstrutivo secundário à neoplasia colorretal, com ênfase em seu diagnóstico e tratamento. (AU)

ABSTRACT: Intestinal obstruction is the most frequent clinical manifestation of colon tumors, most of which are located in the descending and recto-sigmoid colon. Emergency bowel obstruction surgery is associated with high mortality and morbidity risks and the ideal approach remains controversial. Multi-stage procedures and the use of stents as bridges for surgery are promising options. A case of a 61-year-old patient with an acute obstructive abdomen secondary to colorectal neoplasm is presented, with emphasis on its diagnosis and treatment. (AU)

Megaesôfago e megacólon na doença de Chagas: classificação de casos e possibilidades de atuação da atenção primária à saúde / Megaesophagus and megacolon in Chagas disease: classification of cases and possibilities of action in primary health care

Objetivos: classificar pacientes chagásicos com a forma digestiva da doença associando com variáveis demográficas, clínicas e de utilização de serviços de saúde, além de analisar as possibilidades de atuação da Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) no manejo e acompanhamento dos casos. Casuística e métodos: estudo transversal com base em dados secundários provenientes de prontuários. Foram utilizadas as classificações do megaesôfago e do megacólon propostas por Rezende (1982) e Silva (2013), respectivamente. Resultados: Foram analisados 156 prontuários, sendo 94 (60,2%) relativos a megaesôfagos, 29 (18,6%) a megacólons e 29 (18,6%) a ambas as formas clínicas. O maior número de internações (p=0,02; OR=3,71) e de dias internados (p<0,01; OR=3,30) foi associado aos pacientes classificados nos grupos III e IV de megaesôfago. Em relação ao sexo masculino (p=0,02), o maior número de internações (p<0,0001) e de dias internados (p<0,0001) foi associado aos pacientes classificados no grau III de megacólon. Conclusões: Concluiu-se que a APS possui papel importante na diminuição da sobrecarga dos serviços de média e alta complexidade com o acompanhamento dos casos estáveis e menos graves e que a melhoria da qualidade de vida dos pacientes chagásicos é um efeito direto que pode ser esperado do protagonismo da APS neste cuidado.

Objectives: To classify chagasic patients with the digestive form of the disease, associating with demographic, clinical, and use of health services variables, in addition to analyzing the possibilities of Primary Health Care (PHC) acting in the management and follow-up of cases. Casuistry and Methods: A cross-sectional study based on secondary data from medical records was conducted. We used the classification of megaesophagus and megacolon proposed by Rezende (1982) and Silva (2013), respectively. Results: 156 medical records were analyzed: 94 (60.2%) related to megaesophagus, 29 (18.6%) to megacolon, and 29 (18.6%) with both clinical forms. The highest number of hospitalizations (p=0.02; OR=3.71) and days hospitalized (p<0.01; OR=3.30) were associated with patients classified in groups III and IV with megaesophagus. Male gender (p=0.02), more hospitalizations (p=0.0001), and more days in the hospital (p=0.0001) were all linked to patients classified as having gradeIII megacolon. Conclusions: We concluded that PHC has an important role in reducing the burden of medium and high-complexity services with the monitoring of stable and less severe cases. It also demonstrated the direct effect of PHC protagonism on the improvement of chagasic patients' quality of life.

Colitis ulcerosa en paciente con enfermedad celiaca silente

RESUMEN Se presenta caso de mujer con enfermedad celiaca que presentó colitis ulcerosa complicada con megacolon tóxico. El cuadro revirtió con inmunosupresores y tratamiento médico. Se sugiere a los médicos la búsqueda activa de enfermedades autoinmunes asociadas, además del diagnóstico precoz y tratamiento oportuno de la enfermedad celiaca para evitar complicaciones.

ABSTRACT We present case of a woman with celiac disease who presented ulcerative colitis complicated with toxic megacolon. The condition reversed with immunosuppressants and medical treatment. Physicians are advised to actively search for associated autoimmune diseases, as well as early diagnosis and timely treatment of celiac disease to avoid complications.

RESUMO Apresentamos o caso de uma mulher com doença celíaca que apresentou colite ulcerosa complicada com megacolo tóxico. A condição foi revertida com imunossupressores e tratamento médico. Os médicos são aconselhados a pesquisar ativamente as doenças autoimunes associadas, além do diagnóstico precoce e do tratamento oportuno da doença celíaca para evitar complicações.

Enfermedad de Chagas y sus manifestaciones neurológicas / Chagas disease and its neurological manifestations

RESUMEN La enfermedad de chagas (tripanosomiasis americana) es una zoonosis potencialmente mortal causada por el parásito Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitido por vectores encontrados principalmente en territorio latinoamericano, aunque tiene otras vías de transmisión menos comunes. La fase aguda puede ser asintomática, presentarse con síntomas generales inespecíficos o con complicaciones como miocarditis o meningoencefalitis; adicionalmente, se presentan formas crónicas que incluyen cardiomegalia y sus complicaciones, enfermedad gastrointestinal y neuropatía periférica. Los eventos tromboembólicos son frecuentes, siendo el infarto cerebral el más común. El tratamiento específico antitripanosómico tiene mayor impacto en las formas agudas; las formas crónicas deberán tratarse de acuerdo con sus complicaciones, excepto en casos seleccionados. A continuación se detalla la fisiopatología, las manifestaciones clínicas, así como el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de acuerdo con sus diferentes formas de presentación.

SUMMARY Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis) is a potentially fatal zoonosis caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by vectors found mainly in Latin American territory, although it has other less common transmission routes. The acute phase may be asymptomatic, present with nonspecific general symptoms or with complications such as myocarditis or meningoencephalitis; additionally there are chronic forms including cardiomegaly and its complications, gastrointestinal disease and peripheral neuropathy. Thromboembolic events are frequent, with cerebral infarction being the most common. Specific anti-trypanosomal treatment has a greater impact on the acute forms. Chronic forms should be treated according to their complications, except in selected cases. The pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, as well as the diagnosis and treatment, are according to the presentation of the disease.

Etiological analysis and surgical method selection of adult megacolon / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Adult megacolon is a rare disease with heterogeneneous etiology. The treatment schemes of megacolon caused by different causes are also different, but surgery is the final and the most effective method. Due to the lack of early understanding of the disease, many patients have not been clearly diagnosed as adult megacolon and have not been properly treated. This article classifies adult megacolon according to the etiology and summarizes its surgical options. For adult Hirschsprung's disease, modified Duhamel, the Jinling procedure, low anterior resection, or pull-through low anterior resection can be used. For patients with idiopathic megacolon, one-stage subtotal colorectal resection can be selected with adequate preoperative preparations. Some patients admitted to the hospital with emergency intestinal obstruction can be treated with conservative treatment or decompression under colonoscopy followed by selective surgery. For patients with aganglionosis, the procedure is subtotal colorectal resection, the same as that of idiopathic megacolon. The procedure is to remove both the dilated proximal intestine and the stenotic distal intestine, then an ileorectal anastomosis or ascending colon rectal anastomosis is performed. For toxic megacolon, colostomy can be done for mild cases, and for severe infections, subtotal colorectal resection is required. Latrogenic megacolon is mostly caused by segmental stenosis or lack of peristalsis, resulting in chronic dilatation of the proximal end and the formation of megacolon. It is necessary to choose a reasonable surgical procedure according to the specific conditions of the patient. The first choice for the treatment of acute colonic pseudo-obstruction syndrome is decompression under colonoscopy. For those with the secondary changes in the intestine, ostomy is still the most effective surgical procedure, but should be performed with caution.

Colitis ulcerativa fulminante complicada con megacolon tóxico / Fulminant ulcerative colitis complicated with toxic megacolon

Presentamos un caso de abdomen agudo secundario a megacolon tóxico perforado como debut de colitis ulcerativa que requirió múltiples intervenciones quirúrgicas y estancia prolongada en la unidad de cuidados intensivos. El megacolon tóxico es una complicación infrecuente y potencialmente fatal de la colitis ulcerativa, siendo más raro aún como debut en un paciente sin antecedentes y con solo un factor de riesgo identificado, considerándolo una oportunidad para compartir su estudio y abordaje. El diagnóstico de megacolon tóxico se configura de acuerdo con los criterios propuestos por Jalan. Aunque el tratamiento inicial es médico con corticoterapia endovenosa, un porcentaje importante de pacientes precisará abordaje quirúrgico.

We present a case of acute abdomen secondary to perforated toxic megacolon in a patient with new-onset ulcerative colitis (UC) that required multiple surgical interventions and prolonged intensive care unit stay. Toxic megacolon is a rare but potentially fatal complication of UC, being even rarer in new-onset UC in a patient with no history and only one risk factor identified, considering this an opportunity to share its study and approach. The diagnosis of toxic megacolon is based on the criteria proposed by Jalan. Although the initial treatment is medical therapy with intravenous corticosteroids, surgical management is necessary for a significant majority of patients.

Rectal endometriosis presenting as toxic megacolon

Background The bowel is the most common site of extragenital endometriosis, with involvement of the locoregional sigmoid colon and anterior rectum seen most often. The clinical presentation varies depending on how soon patients seek medical care, thus requiring changes in management strategies. Endometriosis can cause a life-threatening surgical emergency with progressive obliteration of the bowel lumen leading to obstruction and late complications including toxic megacolon and transmural necrosis. Case presentation We report the case of a 41-year-old woman presenting with an acute abdomen and complete large bowel obstruction complicated by sepsis and toxic megacolon. The patient underwent emergency total colectomy with ileostomy. Medical history was significant for chronic, vague, and episodic lower abdominal pain self-medicated with herbal tea and laxatives. Pathologic examination demonstrated colonic endometriosis within the bowel wall as the cause of obstruction, ischemia, and transmural necrosis. Conclusions Although a rare clinical entity, this case highlights two important points. First, it demonstrates the value of performing proper and complete clinical work up to rule out or in all possible causes of colonic obstruction, including intestinal endometriosis. Second, it suggests a potential benefit of a formalized multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, in the management of medically unresponsive endometriosis. In conclusion, this case shows that endometriosis can cause life-threatening colonic obstruction in women of childbearing age. Prompt early intervention is warranted, particularly when obstruction is only partial and ischemia has not supervened, to conceivably prevent the development of a toxic megacolon requiring colectomy and avoid late complications.

Megacolon tóxico en paciente con COVID-19 / Toxic megacolon in a patient with Covid-19

Introducción: La pandemia derivada de la enfermedad por el nuevo coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) se ha convertido en una emergencia de salud pública mundial, debido a que puede desarrollar complicaciones que amenazan la vida. Si bien se sabe que el SARS-CoV-2 causa enfermedad pulmonar sustancial, se han observado muchas manifestaciones extrapulmonares, incluyendo el compromiso del sistema gastrointestinal. El megacolon tóxico es una complicación rara pero, potencialmente, mortal que se asocia más con la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal. Sin embargo, cualquier afección que conduzca a la inflamación del colon puede conducir a una dilatación tóxica. Objetivo: Se presenta el caso de un paciente con un síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda secundario a una infección por SARS-COV-2. De manera concomitante presentó un cuadro de dilatación no obstructiva del colon, asociado con toxicidad sistémica. Caso clínico: El desarrollo de megacolon tóxico en un paciente con SARS-COV-2 puede estar justificado debido a que el virus infecta las células huésped a través del receptor de la enzima convertidora de angiotensina 2. Se cumplieron los criterios diagnósticos para megacolon tóxico. Conclusiones: Esta también se encuentra altamente expresada en las células epiteliales intestinales, por lo tanto, se debe considerar su diagnóstico oportuno para una intervención temprana, en aras de reducir la tasa de mortalidad tanto como sea posible(AU)

Introduction: The pandemic derived from the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has become a global public health emergency, due to the fact that it can develop life-threatening complications. Although SARS-CoV-2 is known to cause substantial lung disease, many extra-pulmonary manifestations have been observed, including involvement of the gastrointestinal system. Toxic mega colon is a rare but life-threatening complication most associated with inflammatory bowel disease. However, any condition that leads to inflammation of the colon can lead to toxic dilation. Objective: To report the case of a patient with ARDS secondary to a SARS-COV-2 infection. Concomitantly, she had non-obstructive dilation of the colon, associated with systemic toxicity. Clinical case report: The development of toxic mega colon in a patient with SARS-COV-2 may be justified because the virus infects host cells through the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor. The diagnostic criteria for toxic megacolon were met. Conclusions: It is also highly expressed in intestinal epithelial cells, therefore, its timely diagnosis should be considered for early intervention, in order to reduce the mortality rate as much as possible(AU)

Síndrome de Ogilvie asociado a hospitalización prolongada en un paciente con evento vascular cerebral isquémico. Reporte de un caso / Ogilvie Syndrome Associated with Prolonged Hospitalization in a Patient with an Ischemic Cerebrovascular Event. Case Report

Resumen Introducción: El síndrome de Ogilvie o seudoobstrucción colónica aguda es la dilatación aguda del colon, sin evidencia de obstrucción mecánica, y se atribuye a un desbalance autonómico de la inervación motora del colon. Es común en pacientes hospitalizados con comorbilidades importantes. Su manejo es escalonado, reservando el manejo quirúrgico para los casos refractarios al manejo médico inicial o con presencia de complicaciones como perforación y datos de sepsis. Caso clínico: Presentamos el caso de un paciente del sexo masculino, de 69 años de edad, quien acudió al servicio de urgencias en el contexto de evento vascular cerebral, quien cursó con intubación prolongada, iniciado a los 17 días de su ingreso, con distensión abdominal refractaria a manejo médico, con dilatación colónica importante, corroborada por tomografía de abdomen, por lo que se decidió manejo quirúrgico. Conclusiones: Es importante hacer diagnóstico precoz de este síndrome para evitar complicaciones propias de la enfermedad, así como de la cirugía. Importante hacer diagnóstico con otras causas de oclusión y tener un alto índice de sospecha al tratarse de un diagnóstico de exclusión.

Abstract Introduction: Ogilvie's syndrome or acute colonic pseudo-obstruction is the acute dilation of the colon without evidence of mechanical obstruction and is attributed to an autonomic imbalance of motor innervation of the colon. It is common in hospitalized patients with significant comorbidities. Its management is staggered, reserving surgical management for cases refractory to initial medical management or with the presence of complications such as perforation and sepsis data. Case report: We present the case of a 69-year-old male patient who went to the emergency service in the context of a cerebral vascular event. He underwent prolonged intubation, which began 17 days after his admission with abdominal distention refractory to medical management, with significant colonic dilation corroborated by abdominal tomography, so it was decided to manage it surgically. Conclusions: It is important to make an early diagnosis of this syndrome to avoid complications of the disease, as well as surgery. It is important to make a differential diagnosis with other causes of occlusion and have a high index of suspicion since it is a diagnosis of exclusion.

Chagasic megacolon in Venezuela - case report / Megacólon chagásico na Venezuela

ABSTRACT Chagasic megacolon is the second most frequent cause of manifestation of the digestive forms of Chagas disease (trypanosoma cruzi parasitosis), characterized by progressive pseudo-occlusive symptoms or chronic constipation, caused by an alteration in the functioning of the colonic wall musculature. In Venezuela, cases of chagasic disease reported in the past are referred to chagasic heart disease, this being the first documented case of chagasic megacolon. We broach herein a case of chagasic megacolon in which early diagnosis and prompt surgical treatment led to a successful outcome.

RESUMO O megacólon chagásico é a segunda causa mais frequente de manifestação das formas digestivas da doença de Chagas (parasitose do Trypanosoma cruzi), caracterizado por sintomas pseudo-oclusivos progressivos ou constipação crônica, causado por uma alteração no funcionamento da musculatura da parede do cólon. Na Venezuela, os casos da doença chagásica relatados no passado são referidos como doença cardíaca chagásica, sendo este o primeiro caso documentado de megacólon chagásico. Neste artigo, abordamos um caso de megacólon chagásico no qual o diagnóstico precoce e o tratamento cirúrgico imediato levaram a um resultado bem-sucedido.

Megadolicocolon de presentación poco usual en un paciente de edad avanzada: a propósito de un caso / Megadolicocolon with unusual presentation in an elderly patient: a case report

El megadolicocolon es una patología inusual, de etiología no bien esclarecida. Tal parece ser de origen congénito, se presenta con frecuencia en recién nacidos y lactantes con vólvulos de colon. Su incidencia es variable y se encuentra entre 1,9 y 28,5 %.Este reporte de caso es excepcional debido a que se presenta con una evolución y comportamiento agresivo de la enfermedad, pues se trata de un paciente de edad avanzada, con antecedente de sigmoidopexia y cuadro clínico de 7 meses de evolución consistente en estreñimiento crónico y exacerbación difusa de dolor abdominal incapacitante, quién requirió procedimiento quirúrgico de emergencia para su manejo

Megadolichocolon is an unusual pathology of not well clarified etiology. It seems to be of congenital origin and occurs frequently in newborns and infants with colon volvulus. Its incidence varies between 1.9% and 28.5%. This case report is exceptional because it presents with an aggressive evolution and behavior of the disease, since it is an elderly patient, with a history of sigmoidopexy and a clinical evolution of 7 months consisting of chronic constipation and diffuse exacerbation of disabling abdominal pain, who required an emergency surgical proce-dure for its management

Although with intact mucosa at colonoscopy, chagasic megacolons have an overexpression of Gal-3 / Embora com mucosa íntegra à colonoscopia, megacólons chagásicos apresentam superexpressão de Gal-3

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the density of anti-galectin-3-immunostained cells, collagen percentage, mast cell density and presence of pathological processes in intestinal muscle biopsies of patients. Methods Thirty-five patients who underwent intestinal biopsy were selected from 1997 to 2015. Patients were divided into three groups: chagasic patients with mucosal lesion (n=13), chagasic patients with intact mucosa (n=12) and non-chagasic patients with no mucosal lesion (n=10). Histological processing of the biopsied fragments and immunohistochemistry for galectin-3 were performed. Additional sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin to evaluate the general pathological processes, picrosirius for evaluation of collagen and toluidine blue to evaluate the mast cell density. Results Patients of mucosal lesion group had a significantly higher frequency of ganglionitis and myositis when compared to the chagasic patients with intact mucosa and non-chagasic group. The density of anti-galectin-3-immunostained cells was significantly higher in the chagasic patients with intact mucosa group when compared to the non-chagasic group. The group of chagasic patients with intact mucosa presented a higher percentage of collagen in relation to the patients with mucosal lesion and to the non-chagasic group, with a significant difference. There was no significant difference in mast cell density among the three groups. Conclusion The higher density of anti-galectin-3-immunostained cells in patients in the chagasic patients with intact mucosa group suggested the need for greater attention in clinical evaluation of these patients, since this protein is associated with neoplastic transformation and progression.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar a densidade de células imunomarcadas por anti-galectina-3, a percentagem de colágeno, a densidade de mastócitos e a presença de processos patológicos na musculatura intestinal de pacientes biopsiados. Métodos Foram selecionados 35 pacientes submetidos à biópsia de intestino entre 1997 a 2015. Os pacientes foram divididos em três grupos: chagásicos com lesão de mucosa (n=13), chagásicos com mucosa íntegra (n=12) e não chagásicos sem lesão de mucosa (n=10). Foram realizados processamento histológico dos fragmentos biopsiados e imunohistoquímica para galectina-3. Cortes adicionais foram corados por hematoxilina e eosina, para avaliar os processos patológicos gerais, pelo picrosírius, para avaliação do colágeno, e pelo azul de toluidina, para avaliar a densidade de mastócitos. Resultados Os pacientes do grupo chagásicos com lesão de mucosa apresentaram frequência significativamente maior de ganglionite e miosite quando comparados aos dos grupos chagásico com mucosa íntegra e não chagásicos. A densidade das células imunomarcadas por anti-galectina-3 foi significativamente maior no grupo chagásicos com mucosa íntegra quando comparada ao grupo não chagásico. O grupo de chagásicos com mucosa íntegra apresentou maior percentagem de colágeno em relação aos grupos chagásicos com mucosa lesada e ao grupo de não chagásicos, com diferença significativa. Não houve diferença significativa com relação à densidade de mastócitos entre os três grupos. Conclusão A maior densidade de células imunomarcadas por anti-galectina-3 nos pacientes do grupo chagásico com mucosa íntegra sugere a necessidade de maior atenção na avaliação clínica desses pacientes, uma vez que essa proteína está associada com transformação e progressão neoplásica.

Clinical and manometric investigation in constipated Chagasic patients with and without megacolon / Investigação clínica e manométrica de pacientes chagásicos constipados com e sem megacolon

ABSTRACT Background: Chagasic colopathy is the second most common digestive manifestation, and constipation is the main symptom. The absence of the Rectoanal Inhibitory Reflex plays an important role in constipation and anal manometry is crucial for appropriate evaluation. Purpose: Evaluate anal manometry findings (mainly Rectoanal Inhibitory Reflex) in Chagasic patients with chronic constipation, with and without megacolon and correlate these findings with clinical and demographic data. Methods: Cross-sectional study of patients with chronic constipation who underwent Chagasic serologic test, barium enema, and anal manometry. The absence of Rectoanal Inhibitory Reflex was evaluated using the mid-P Exact Test. Results: 64 Patients were included: 23 Chagasic patients with megacolon/megarectum (G1), 21 Chagasic patients without megacolon/megarectum (G2) and 20 non-Chagasic patients without megacolon/megarectum (G3). Chagasic patients with megacolon had a higher incidence of fecaloma (39%) compared to the other two groups (9.5% and 10% for G2 and G3, respectively, p = 0.03). Rectal capacity on manometry was statically higher for G1 patients. Rectoanal Inhibitory Reflex was absent in 91.3% of patients in G1, 47.29% in G2 and present in all patients in G3. There was a significant difference in the absence of the Rectoanal Inhibitory Reflex when comparing the groups (G1 vs. G2: p = 0.002, G1 vs. G3: p < 0.001, G2 vs. G3: p < 0.001). Conclusion: The absence of RAIR confirms the diagnosis of Chagasic colopathy and endorses surgical treatment whenever clinical treatment fails. The presence of the RAIR in patients with positive serology for Chagas disease without megacolon/megarectum might not be due chagasic colopathy and other causes should be considered.

RESUMO Fundamento: A colopatia chagásica é a segunda manifestação digestiva mais comum e a constipação é o principal sintoma. A ausência do Reflexo Inibitório Retoanal desempenha um papel importante na constipação e a manometria anal é crucial para avaliação adequada. Objetivo: Avaliar os achados da manometria anal (principalmente o Reflexo Inibitório Retoanal) em pacientes chagásicos com constipação crônica, com e sem megacólon, e correlacionar esses achados com dados clínicos e demográficos.Métodos: Estudo transversal de pacientes com constipação crônica submetidos ao teste sorológico para doença de chagas, enema de bário e manometria anal. A ausência de Reflexo Inibitório Retoanal foi avaliada por meio do Teste Exato de Ponto Médio. Resultados: Foram incluídos 64 pacientes: 23 chagásicos com megacólon/megarreto (G1), 21 chagásicos sem megacólon/megarreto (G2) e 20 não chagásicos sem megacólon/megarreto (G3). Os pacientes chagásicos com megacólon apresentaram maior incidência de fecaloma (39%) em comparação aos outros dois grupos (9,5% e 10% para G2 e G3, respectivamente, p = 0,03). A capacidade retal na manometria foi estatisticamente maior nos pacientes do G1. O Reflexo Inibitório Retoanal estava ausente em 91,3% dos pacientes do G1, em 47,29% no G2 e presente em todos os pacientes do G3. Houve diferença significativa na ausência do Reflexo Inibitório Retoanal quando comparados os grupos (G1 vs. G2: p = 0,002, G1 vs. G3: p < 0,001, G2 vs. G3: p < 0,001). Conclusão: A ausência de RIRA confirma o diagnóstico de colopatia chagásica e endossa o tratamento cirúrgico sempre que o tratamento clínico falhar. A presença de RIRA em pacientes com sorologia positiva para doença de Chagas, sem megacólon/megarreto, pode não ser devida à colopatia chagásica e outras causas devem ser consideradas.

Descenso transanal endorrectal De la Torre como tratamiento de enfermedad de hirschsprung, Hospital Escuela, 2013-2015 / Transanal endorectal pull-through de la torre as treatment for Hirschsprung ́s disease, University Hospital, 2013-2015

. Antecedentes: La enfermedad de Hirschsprung (EH) es causa de obstrucción intestinal baja en neonatos. En 1998, De la Torre y Ortega publicaron una importante modificación a la técnica de Soave, realizando un descenso transanal endorrectal. Objetivo:Describir la experiencia en el tratamiento de la Enfermedad de Hirschsprung mediante la técnica descrita por De la Torre, Hospital Escuela, Tegucigalpa, 2013-2015. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo transversal. Se revisaron expedientes clínicos y se registró información sobre características sociodemográficas y clínicas de los pacientes. Los resultados se presentan como frecuencias y porcentajes de las variables estudiadas. La información personal de los pacientes se manejó confidencialmente. Resultados: Se identificó un total de26 casos intervenidos en el periodo del estudio. El 73.1% (19) pertenecía al sexo masculino, 46.2% (12) se diagnosticó antes de 12 meses de vida; sin enfermedades asociadas. La biopsia diagnosticó la enfermedad en el 100% de los casos. La longitud del colon resecado fue de 10-20 cm en 88.5% (23), con un tiempo quirúrgico de 4-5 horas 69.2% (18). El 19.2% (5) presentó complicaciones. Se inició alimentos en menos de 5 días en 96.1% (25), la estancia hospitalaria fue menor a 7 días en 88.5% (23). Discusión: El descenso endorrectal transanal es una operación segura con pocas complicaciones operatorias y postoperatorias. En este estudio, la estancia hospitalaria y el tiempo hasta la alimentación oral completa fueron más cortos que los procedimientos convencionales lo que generó menores costes hospitalarios. Consideramos que ésta es la técnica de elección para enfermos con la Enfermedad de Hirschsprung...(AU)