A case report on the management of sepsis complicated by eroded mixed hemorrhoids following breast cancer chemotherapy.
Zi Ye, Hongmei Xie, Xiaoqian Lan et al.
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Case in brief
A 51-year-old female with stage IIIA breast cancer developed septicemia and eroded mixed hemorrhoids following chemotherapy. She presented with severe neutropenia and a high fever. Due to the risks associated with surgery, a conservative multimodal approach was employed, including systemic antibiotics and advanced local wound care. After 30 days, the patient became afebrile, and her symptoms resolved, allowing for transfer to a lower-level hospital.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
In patients with severe neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, a conservative management strategy can effectively address complications like eroded hemorrhoids and sepsis, avoiding the risks of surgical intervention.
Why it matters
This case highlights the importance of maintaining perianal hygiene and managing chemotherapy-induced complications to prevent severe outcomes in high-risk patients.