Police in the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina have launched an investigation into 25 cases involving patients who experienced medical complications after undergoing endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures at a private clinic in Ibirama. The incident has resulted in the death of a 38-year-old woman, while two other individuals remain hospitalized in stable condition.
According to the State Health Secretariat (SES), all 25 affected patients reported similar symptoms following their visits to WS Centro Clínico & Diagnósticos. These symptoms included abdominal pain, chills, and vomiting. While most patients were evaluated by medical professionals and did not require hospitalization, two individuals are currently being treated in a hospital setting.
The clinic was provisionally closed by the Municipal Health Surveillance agency on Friday, October 23. The State Health Secretariat is monitoring the situation and awaiting results from tests conducted at the hospital and samples sent to the Central Laboratory of Public Health (Lacen SC). These analyses are expected to help clarify the potential causes of the complications.
The victim has been identified as Daiane Deucher dos Santos, a 38-year-old futsal player who was part of the Amigas da Bola team in Ibirama. She underwent a colonoscopy at the clinic on Thursday, October 22. After feeling unwell post-procedure, she sought treatment at Doutor Waldomiro Colautti Hospital, where she was medicated and released. However, her condition worsened by Friday, leading to a seizure and readmission. Daiane passed away on Monday, October 26, following a cardiorespiratory arrest.
While a friend of the deceased suggested that Daiane may have contracted a bacteria after the exam, authorities have not yet confirmed this information, and the circumstances surrounding her death remain under investigation. The Civil Police of Santa Catarina stated they are conducting inquiries, having already interviewed family members and begun analyzing relevant medical documents. The investigation is being supported by Health Surveillance and Epidemiological agencies, with technical results to be forwarded to police authorities upon completion.
In a statement, WS Centro Clínico & Diagnósticos expressed regret over the incident and solidarity with the patients and their families. The clinic noted that it has been performing these procedures for three years without prior incidents of this nature and is cooperating fully with authorities. The facility also stated that patients were only discharged after waking from sedation and meeting adequate health conditions. The technical manager mentioned that the team is exploring various possibilities for the cause, including bacteria, viruses, medication issues, or external factors.
The Municipal Health Secretariat has advised anyone who underwent examinations at the clinic and is experiencing symptoms, even if mild, to seek immediate medical attention.
Sources: CNN Brasil.