An Incidental Finding in a Cecal Biopsy

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Introduction

In the following case, a diagnosis of intestinal spirochetosis was made based on light microscopic findings. The electron microscopic findings (TEM and SEM) are shown here for additional confirmation and to demonstrate the EM features of intestinal spirochetosis.

Summary of Clinical History

This 59 year old female presented to her endoscopist for follow up of a large hyperplastic polyp removed by colonoscopy two years earlier. She had a positive family history of colon cancer but no gastrointestinal symptoms. Colonoscopy was performed and was normal to the terminal ileum. Biopsies were taken from the ileocecal area.