Colon perforations associated with steroid therapy

Ten patients on systemic steroid therapy for a variety of diseases developed acute colon perforation secondary to diverticulitis or vasculitis. In eight patients, there was delay in diagnosis. Fever, abdominal pain, and tenderness were frequently present. Abdominal guarding and leukocytosis are inconstant findings. The prognosis is grave if free perforation exists. Recommendations for clinical recognition and management are proposed.