Case reports in gastroenterology
Cure8 research brief
Why This Matters
An infectious cause (amebic colitis) can mimic IBD on colonoscopy and imaging, even without symptoms; misdiagnosis could delay correct treatment.
Who Should Pay Attention
Clinicians evaluating colonic ulcers, gastroenterologists, and adults undergoing colonoscopy; patients with suspected or new-onset IBD.
Study Snapshot
Story typeResearch paper
Evidence typeResearch paper
Source depthJournal abstract
What To Know
A 62-year-old man undergoing routine colonoscopy had an isolated cecal ulceration with normal labs and no gastrointestinal symptoms. The lesion was provisionally labeled as inflammatory bowel disease and treated empirically, but biopsy from the ulcer margin later showed abundant amebic trophozoites, confirming amebic colitis.
The patient received metronidazole for 14 days and follow-up colonoscopy showed healing. Follow-up and interpretation This report reinforces that colonoscopy with targeted biopsy is important when ulceration is seen, because histology may reveal infectious etiologies that mimic IBD.
Clinicians should consider invasive amebiasis in the differential diagnosis of colonic ulcers, including in asymptomatic patients, and treat accordingly when confirmed.
Keep In Mind
This entry is a single case report (abstract-level summary). Diagnostic sensitivity for amebiasis can be limited; stool testing and biopsy may be needed. Case reports illustrate possibilities but do not establish frequency.
Source Details
Review the original publication for the complete reporting, methods, and context.
Research paper
Evidence type derived from source or registry metadata.
PublicationCase reports in gastroenterology
AuthorsHuang X, Yue B, Lv F +1 more
Study typeJournal article, case reports
Indexed viaEurope PMC
Source typeResearch paper
PublishedJan 1, 2026, 12:00 AM
Content availableJournal abstract
This Cure8 brief is based on source text from the linked article. Cure8 is informational only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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