A Case of Enterocolic Lymphocytic Phlebitis Mimicking Surgical Abdomen

Abstract

Vasculitis that involves the gastrointestinal (GI) tract often occurs as part of a systemic inflammatory process. It is a well-recognized manifestation of the small and medium sized vessel vasculitides. Vasculitis of the GI tract may occur in isolation; although it can progress to a systemic illness. It usually involves the arterioles, venules, and capillaries; however, it is very rare for only the venules to be affected. Enterocolic lymphocytic phlebitis is a localized vasculitis, typically affecting the small and medium-sized intramural and mesenteric veins of the intestines. We report a case of enterocolic lymphocytic phlebitis of the colon. A 38-year-old woman was presented with hematochezia and severe abdominal pain on the day of admission. She had no history of intestinal disease or systemic disease. Computed tomography showed an extremely thickened wall of the colon, along with several air bubbles in the colon with diffuse subcutaneous emphysema in the abdominal wall. An emergency exploration laparotomy and extended right hemicolectomy was performed. The patient recovered completely after surgery and remains well without further therapy.