Self-limited cytomegalovirus colitis in immunocompetent individuals

Abstract

We report 3 cases of isolated acute cytomegalovirus colitis in immunocompetent individuals. Each case was documented by the presence of cytomegalovirus inclusions in colonic biopsy specimens. All had a self-limited illness. Two of these cases occurred after anal intercourse and 1 case had no probable known cause. At follow-up from 2 to 6 yr later, none of the 3 patients has had any gastrointestinal symptoms. Additional biopsy specimens were obtained from 2 patients and no evidence of residual cytomegalovirus was seen by light microscopy or by in situ hybridization. Although cytomegalovirus colitis in immunosuppressed individuals is well recognized, these are the first reports of a nonfatal cytomegalovirus colitis in immunocompetent hosts.