Spirochetosis of the colon
Spirochetosis of the colon in a 45 year-old immunocompromised male with diarrhea. H&E (40X) showing a "fuzzy" blue appearance at the luminal surface of the colonic mucosa. Spirochetosis can be seen in 5 to 10% of normal patients, but up to 30% of homosexual males. Patients may be asymptomatic or they may present with abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and rectal bleeding. The endoscopic exam typically reveals unremarkable appearing colonic mucosa. The diagnosis is, therefore, established histologically.
Contributed by Dr. James Carlsten
1 minute clinical correlation