The Histopathology of Rectosigmoid Biopsies from Adults with Bloody Diarrhea Due to Verotoxin-Producing Escherichia coli

Abstract

The histopathology of rectosigmoid biosies from 20 patients with bloody diarrhea resulting from verotoxin-producing Escherichia coli infection is reported. The biopsies displayed a range of appearances, from normal to mild, nonspecific inflammation to acute infectious-type colitis. Surface-adherent or invasive bacteria were not identified. The morphologic features of infectious colitis and the absence of bacteria suggest that verotoxin may be responsible for the pathologic changes.