Chagasic megacolon and proximal jejunum microbiota.

BACKGROUND

Among other factors, control of jejunal microflora depends on intestinal emptiness, and it can be impaired by Chagas disease. This study was developed to identify the microecology of the proximal jejunum in chagasic megacolon. Our objective was to characterize both the jejunal microbial stasis before surgery and the microflora after surgical treatment in patients with chagasic megacolon.

METHODS

The intestinal fluids were collected, and the proximal jejunum microflora was analyzed.

RESULTS

Preoperative microflora had shown an increase in bacteria compatible with bacterial overgrowth syndrome, mainly facultative and strict anaerobes microorganisms and fungi. The microflora had changed in the postoperative period in 83% of these patients, with significant decrease in the number of transient microorganisms.

CONCLUSIONS

Chagasic megacolon was related to an increase in jejunal microflora. By removing the impairment of the colon there was a transient decrease in the proximal jejunum microflora.