Auranofin-associated colitis and eosinophilia.

Gold compounds, often used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, have been associated with gastrointestinal disturbances in some patients. Use of auranofin, an oral gold preparation, in a 50-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis resulted in diarrhea, abdominal tenderness, nausea, and vomiting, which persisted despite discontinuation of auranofin therapy. The presumptive diagnosis was gold-induced colitis and eosinophilia. Administration of cromolyn sodium provided relief. Although this complication may be rare, evolving bowel symptoms in patients receiving auranofin demand prompt attention.