Intestinal spirochetosis

Intestinal spirochetosis is a rare disease and difficult to diagnose, as its symptoms resemble those seen in many other common diseases. The clinical course typically includes prolonged bouts of watery diarrhea, noted weight loss, and occasional abdominal pain with cramping, which is sometimes also associated with rectal bleeding. Symptoms are relieved with fasting. The diagnosis of intestinal spirochetosis is based primarily on colonoscopy and biopsy. The authors report a 47-year-old man who presented with diarrhea, cramping, and abdominal pain. Investigation via biopsy of the colon and rectosigmoid junction indicated a moderate number of spirochete organisms, revealing a diagnosis of intestinal spirochetosis. Division of Gastroenterology.