[Typhlitis].

Abstract

Typhlitis, ileocecal syndrome and neutropenic enterocolitis are different terms, of what seems to be a localized infection in the cecal mucosa, caused by Clostridia species. Initially described in neutropenic patients, with leukaemias or after antineoplastic chemotherapy, typhlitis can also occur in HIV patients, as in the present case report. Their early diagnosis is not easy, becoming particularly difficult in immunodepressed patients, whom can be affected by multiple problems causing similar symptoms. Treatment, as well, can be problematic, and aggressive medical treatment should be pursued. If some patients may need surgery, others might be submitted to unnecessary surgical procedures. In the long range, medical control of this situation can be very difficult.