Edwardsiella tarda Infection Triggering Acute Relapse in Pediatric Crohn’s Disease

Abstract

Crohn’s disease exacerbations can often be associated with bacterial infections causing gastroenteritis. We report a child who experienced exacerbation of his Crohn’s disease associated with a positive stool culture for Edwardsiella tarda (E. tarda). Endoscopy showed features of moderate inflammation similar to exacerbation of Crohn’s disease. The patient was treated simultaneously with intravenous steroids and antibiotics, and his symptoms resolved. This case report highlights the importance of clinicians being able to promptly recognize and treat concurrent bacterial infections in Crohn’s disease exacerbations.