Published online Sep 16, 2019. doi: 10.4253/wjge.v11.i9.486
Peer-review started: June 4, 2019
First decision: August 2, 2019
Revised: August 9, 2019
Accepted: August 27, 2019
Article in press: August 27, 2019
Published online: September 16, 2019
Processing time: 103 Days and 1.7 Hours
Hydrogen peroxide is one of the most common household disinfectants worldwide. Hydrogen peroxide has been documented as a rare cause of chemical colitis.
We present a case of 31 years old lady who presented to our hospital with rectal bleeding and abdominal pain after using hydrogen peroxide vaginal douche as an enema. She underwent colonoscopy which showed findings suggestive of chemical colitis and was managed conservatively. Hydrogen peroxide can induce chemical injury in the colon. Clinical presentation and endoscopic findings of chemical colitis are nonspecific. History taking is an important tool in identifying the underlying etiology. Review of literature showed few case reports, mostly were managed with oral antibiotics and conservative approach.
Chemical colitis is usually managed conservatively. Complications including perforation, stricture and peritonitis may happen and need aggressive treatment accordingly.
Core tip: Chemical colitis is a rare entity. Depending on the extent of injury, it may lead to serious complications like perforation, stricture and peritonitis. We here present a case of chemical colitis caused by use of hydrogen peroxide vaginal douche as an enema. Patient’s clinical condition improved with supportive care.