Stercoral Perforation of Sigmoid Colon in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Rare Cause of Peritonitis

Abstract

Stercoral perforation (SP) is a rare cause of peritonitis. It is caused by pressure necrosis of the colonic wall by fecaloma. SP is a lethal condition that is associated with high morbidity and mortality, therefore early diagnosis and treatment are of paramount importance. Herein, we describe a case of SP in a systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patient. A 44-year-old female, known case of SLE, presented with severe abdominal pain, fever, and hypotension. CT scan showed features of perforated sigmoid. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy which revealed perforation of sigmoid, fecalomas in the peritoneal cavity, and colon loaded with fecal matter. The patient underwent Hartmann's operation with successful control of her intra-abdominal sepsis. Her postoperative course was complicated by SLE flare and wound dehiscence which was probably due to long term steroid use. Even though SP is rare, it carries a worse prognosis especially if the patients are immunocompromised. The key to successfully manage such cases is early diagnosis, aggressive resuscitation, antibiotics, and prompt surgical intervention. A multidisciplinary approach is often helpful in such cases.