Clostridium septicum Bacteremia As the Presenting Sign of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality throughout the world. Some of the most common presenting signs are a change in bowel habits, alteration of fecal contour or consistency, blood in stool, fatigue, and weight loss. However, it may present insidiously. This is the case of an 81-year-old female with Clostridium septicum bacteremia as the primary presenting sign of metastatic colon cancer. In further literature review, we discuss the genomic associations that contribute to the severity of the disease and explore the potential links between the gut microbiome and colorectal carcinoma. This article highlights risk factor modifications and lab abnormalities that may be useful for the primary care provider and acute care practitioner.