Fulminating necrotizing amebic colitis with perforation: case report and review.

A seriously ill patient with diffuse abdominal tenderness of unknown cause is described. The diagnosis proved to be fulminating necrotizing amebic colitis with perforation. This case report serves as a reminder that amebiasis may occur in patients who have not been outside Canada, that it may readily be confused with other types of inflammatory bowel disease, and that particular care should be taken in obtaining a history of exposure. Before inflammatory bowel disease is diagnosed not only should the usual diagnostic tests such as stool examination and mucosal biopsy be done, but also serologic testing for amebiasis should be carried out.