Devastating presentations of regional enteritis (Crohn's disease): two reports of survival following severe multiple organ dysfunction syndrome.

Overview

BACKGROUND: Regional enteritis may present in the setting of a variety of clinical symptoms. These symptoms range from mild to severe. METHODS: Here we describe two different presentations of regional enteritis (Crohn's disease): one in the setting of Clostridium perfringens sepsis and the second in association with hemolytic-uremic syndrome. Both presentations resulted in life-threatening multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. RESULTS: Following appropriate surgical management and intensive physiologic support, both patients recovered, despite a MODS-predicted risk of mortality of 100% and 91%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Fulminant presentations of regional enteritis of this magnitude are rare, and highlight the resolution of severe multiple organ dysfunction for each presentation.