Phlegmonous Duodenitis Complicating Multiple Myeloma: A Successfully Treated Case

A patient receiving chemotherapy for multiple myeloma suddenly developed an acute abdomen, fever, and neutrophil leukocytosis. At laparotomy, the distal two-thirds of the duodenum was swollen and hemorrhagic and was surgically excised. The specimen displayed an acute phlegmonous (suppurative) duodenitis with submucosal and transmural acute inflammation and edema despite an intact mucosa. Blood cultures grew Group B, beta-hemolytic streptococci and gram-positive cocci were present histologically. The patient recovered uneventfully following the surgery and a course of broad spectrum antibiotic therapy. This case illustrates that localized suppurative intestinal infection should be considered when immunosuppressed patients present with an acute abdomen, and that aggressive surgical and antibiotic therapy is warranted.