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Olympus Medical Scope Infection Lawsuit [2026]: Colonoscopy, Endoscopy and ERCP Infection Injury Cases

Olympus Medical Scope Infection Lawsuit Cases and Settlement Claims

Have You (Or A Loved One) Suffered An Infection After A Colonoscopy, ERCP, Endoscopy Or Other Procedure Involving An Olympus Endoscope Or Duodenoscope?

Endoscopy Infection Lawsuits & Settlements

Reviewed by Jacobs Kolton, Chtd. Attorneys at Law; Updated May 2026

Olympus medical scope infection lawsuits involve claims that certain reusable Olympus endoscopes and duodenoscopes were difficult to fully clean and disinfect because of complex design features and may have exposed patients to serious infections after procedures such as ERCP, colonoscopy, bronchoscopy, gastroscopy, or upper endoscopy.

Our team of medical device injury lawyers and class action attorneys is investigating potential Olympus medical scope infection lawsuit cases and settlement claims of individuals who suffered an infection after having a colonoscopy, ERCP, endoscopy, bronchoscopy, gastroscopy or other procedure involving an Olympus endoscope or duodenoscope.

Olympus Medical Scope Infection Lawsuit cases settlement claims endoscope duodenoscope superbug endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography ERCP colonoscopy Upper Endoscopy Bronchoscopy Sepsis Septic shock HIV Tuberculosis Cholangitis Carbapenem-resistant enterobacteriaceae CRE Staphylococcus aureus MRSA Organ failure death

If you or a loved one suffered from an infection or sepsis after having a colonoscopy, endoscopy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), bronchoscopy, or other procedure involving an Olympus medical scope (i.e., endoscope, duodenoscope, colonoscope, bronchoscope, gastroscope, etc.), you may be entitled to recover compensation from an Olympus medical scope infection lawsuit case or settlement claim.

An endoscope (an internal medical scope) is a medical device that doctors use to look inside the body through natural openings (mouth, nose, or rectum), usually made of a thin “snake-like” tube with a light, camera and (sometimes) an elevator mechanism that helps guide tools through the scope to take biopsies, remove tissue, or do treatment. Different types of endoscopes include a gastroscope (esophagus, stomach, and duodenum), colonoscope (colon and rectum), duodenoscope (bile and pancreatic ducts), and bronchoscope (airways and lungs), among others.

Unfortunately, certain Olympus brand endoscopes and duodenoscopes have been the subject of allegations that their complex design and reprocessing features made them difficult to properly clean and disinfect, leading to the possible transmission of antibiotic-resistant “superbugs” between patients and potentially increasing the risk of infection.

An infection occurs when harmful microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites) enter the body, multiply, and disrupt normal bodily functions. Once inside the body, these pathogens can damage tissues, trigger inflammation, and interfere with the immune system’s ability to maintain health. Infections can lead to severe injury and even death.

Injured patients (and family members of victims who died) are now coming forward and filing Olympus endoscope infection lawsuits seeking compensation and justice for harm and suffering they may have endured after a procedure involving an Olympus endoscope or duodenoscope.

doctor performing endoscopy ERCP scope procedure

Olympus Medical Scope Infection Lawsuit: Overview

Olympus Scope Infection Lawsuits and Settlements

Olympus medical scope infection lawsuit cases and settlement claims potentially being investigated include claims of patients who had a colonoscopy, ERCP, endoscopy, bronchoscopy, or other procedure involving an Olympus endoscope or duodenoscope and subsequently suffered serious injuries or complications, including:

If you or a loved one suffered an infection after having a colonoscopy, ERCP, endoscopy or other procedure involving an Olympus endoscope or duodenoscope, you may be eligible to recover compensation from an Olympus medical scope infection lawsuit or settlement case.

Olympus Medical Scope Infection Injury Lawsuit Cases and Settlement Claims

Who May Qualify for a Medical Scope Infection Case

Individuals may qualify for a medical scope infection lawsuit case or settlement claim if they (or a loved one):

  • Had A Scope Procedure: Had an ERCP, colonoscopy, upper endoscopy, or other procedure that involved an Olympus endoscope, duodenoscope or other reusable medical scope.
  • Developed A Serious Infection After The Procedure: Developed a serious infection after the procedure such as CRE, E. coli, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, MRSA, Enterococcus, bacteremia, sepsis, cholangitis, or another serious pathogen.
  • Suffered Injury or Death: Suffered serious complications, such as sepsis, organ damage, prolonged illness, disability or other injury that required hospitalization, IV antibiotics, emergency treatment, surgery, ICU care, or other medical care or died from infection.

Other criteria may apply in order to be eligible. Individuals do not need to know the exact scope model before requesting a case review. Not all individuals or cases qualify for a medical scope infection lawsuit. Individuals may not qualify if (1) the infection cannot be linked to the scope (e.g., if the patient had an existing infection in the weeks prior to the procedure, or if the infection occurred too long after the procedure); (2) the infection is minor or easily treated; (3) the claim is outside the statute of limitations period (if an individual waits too long they may be legally barred from suing); and/or (4) medical records do not support the claims. Individuals may not qualify for other reasons.

Olympus Scope Infection Lawsuit Complaints

Individuals who have suffered from infection and related complications after having a procedure involving an Olympus endoscope or duodenoscope have filed lawsuits seeking to recover money damages for the injuries they have suffered.

The Olympus medical scope injury lawsuits allege, among other things, that certain Olympus reusable endoscopes and duodenoscopes (and/or in some cases, compatible accessories) were defectively designed because they were difficult to adequately clean and disinfect, allowing contamination to persist and infections to be transmitted between patients; that Olympus knew or should have known the devices could remain contaminated after use and reprocessing yet failed to provide adequate warnings and instructions about those infection risks; and that Olympus may have failed to timely report adverse events and other safety information to regulators despite known infection-related incidents.

According to Olympus lawsuit complaints, patients who were exposed to contaminated Olympus scopes during endoscopic procedures may be at an increased risk of suffering life-threatening injuries, including but not limited to, CRE and other drug-resistant infections, sepsis, repeat hospitalizations, organ complications, and death.

Olympus lawsuit complaints may assert legal claims for, among other things: negligence, strict liability/negligent failure to warn about infection risks, strict liability/negligent design defect that allegedly made certain scopes incapable of being adequately sterilized or cleaned, negligent misrepresentation, fraudulent misrepresentation, breach of warranty (express and implied) and, in cases involving plaintiffs who have died after a procedure-related infection, wrongful death and survival claims.

The Olympus medical scope infection lawsuits may seek to recover compensatory damages, including past and future medical expenses, past and future pain and suffering, emotional distress, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and disability, disfigurement, past and future loss of consortium, past and future lost wages, including loss of earnings and loss of earning capacity, funeral and burial expenses and/or other consequential damages.

Companies Sued Over Olympus Scope Injuries

Defendants in the Olympus medical scope lawsuits have included:

  • Olympus America, Inc.
  • Olympus Corporation of the Americas
  • Olympus Medical Systems Corp.
  • Other possible defendants

Olympus is a Japanese manufacturer of optic and reprography products that has roughly a 70 percent share of the global endoscope market, which is estimated to be worth several billions of dollars.

Medical Procedures Where Scopes Are Used

Physicians perform numerous medical procedures using endoscopes to examine, diagnose, and/or treat problems inside the body, including:

  • Upper Endoscopy (EGD): An upper endoscopy or EGD is a medical procedure whereby a doctor uses a scope such as gastroscope (a flexible, forward-viewing endoscope inserted through the mouth) to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum) to find ulcers, inflammation, acid reflux, or causes of bleeding.
  • Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a medical procedure whereby a doctor uses a scope such as colonoscope (a long, flexible scope inserted through the anus) to look inside the entire large intestine (colon) and rectum to screen for cancer, polyps or find the cause of abdominal pain.
  • Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): An endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography or ERCP is a highly specialized medical procedure whereby a doctor uses a scope such as duodenoscope (a side-viewing scope with a “periscope” camera and an elevator lever to steer tools into tiny ducts) to find and treat blockages in the bile and pancreatic ducts, such as gallstones or tumors.
  • Bronchoscopy: A bronchoscopy is a medical procedure whereby a doctor uses a scope such as bronchoscope (a very thin, flexible scope inserted through the nose or mouth) to view the throat, larynx, trachea, and lower airways to diagnose infections or take biopsies of lung masses.
  • Other Medical Scope Procedures: Medical scopes are used in numerous other procedures including laparoscopy (abdomen, pelvis, gallbladder), arthroscopy (joints), ureteroscopy (tubes or ureters connecting kidneys), hysteroscopy (uterus), thoracoscopy (space between the lungs and the chest wall), sigmoidoscopy (last third of the colon), cholangioscopy or choledochoscopy (biliary tree/bile ducts) and enteroscopy (small intestine), among others.

It has been estimated that millions of endoscopic procedures are performed annually in the U.S., including about 15 million colonoscopies, 7 million upper endoscopies, and several million ERCPs, bronchoscopies and other scope-related procedures.

Types of Olympus Endoscopes

Several types of endoscopes may be used by medical professionals to examine different parts of the body, including colonoscopes, bronchoscopes, duodenoscopes, and gastroscopes, among others:

  • Colonoscope: A colonoscope is a flexible endoscope specifically designed to examine the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Colonoscope are commonly used in colonoscopies, which help doctors detect conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, inflammation, and bleeding. The colonoscope is a long, thin tube equipped with a light and camera, allowing real-time viewing on a screen as it moves through the colon. Doctors can also use small tools passed through the scope to take tissue samples or remove polyps during the procedure. Colonoscopes are an essential tool for both diagnosing and preventing serious digestive diseases.
  • Bronchoscope: A bronchoscope is a type of endoscope specifically designed to examine the airways and lungs. Bronchoscopes are commonly used by doctors to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the respiratory system, such as infections, tumors, or blockages. Bronchoscopes can be either flexible or rigid, with flexible ones being more commonly used because they can easily navigate the branching passages of the lungs. During a bronchoscopy, the instrument is inserted through the nose or mouth and guided down into the airways, allowing the doctor to view the area in real time and even collect tissue samples or remove obstructions. This procedure is an important tool for both diagnosing lung diseases and performing certain treatments without the need for major surgery.
  • Duodenoscope: A duodenoscope is a specialized type of endoscope used to examine and treat conditions in the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine just beyond the stomach. Unlike standard forward-viewing endoscopes, duodenoscopes have a side-viewing camera that allows doctors to better see and access structures like the bile and pancreatic ducts. They are most commonly used during an ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography), which helps diagnose and treat problems such as gallstones, blockages, or tumors. Duodenoscopes also have channels that allow doctors to pass instruments through them to remove stones, place stents, or take samples, making them an important tool for both diagnosis and treatment in the digestive system.
  • Gastroscope: A gastroscope is a flexible endoscope used to examine the inside of the upper digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine (duodenum). Gastroscopes are commonly used during an upper endoscopy to help diagnose conditions such as ulcers, inflammation, bleeding, or tumors. The gastroscope is a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera, allowing doctors to see detailed images in real time. It also has channels for inserting small instruments, so doctors can take biopsies or perform minor treatments during the procedure.
Medical Scope Infection Injuries and Complications

Reusable medical scopes can transmit infection when bacteria, bodily fluids, or other biological material remain inside the device after use and are not fully removed before the scope is used on another patient. Reusable scopes carry infection risks because any microorganisms left behind after a procedure can potentially be passed to the next patient if cleaning and disinfection are inadequate.

According to the CDC, more healthcare–associated infection outbreaks have been linked to contaminated medical scopes (particularly flexible endoscopes and duodenoscopes used in procedures like colonoscopies, upper endoscopies, bronchoscopies and ERCP procedures) than to any other medical device. The FDA has similarly reported that duodenoscopes have been associated with multidrug-resistant bacterial infections, including cases where facilities appeared to follow manufacturer reprocessing instructions.

This infection risk may be related to the complex device design of flexible reusable scopes. Many flexible endoscopes contain narrow internal channels, moving parts, distal-tip components, seals, hinges, and other hard-to-access areas where residual tissue, fluid, or bacteria may accumulate. Even when reprocessing protocols (the step-by-step procedures used to make a reusable medical device safe for the next patient) are followed, these features can make thorough cleaning and high-level disinfection more difficult, increasing the possibility that contamination may persist and contribute to cross-contamination or infection transmission between patients.

Difficulty Of Cleaning or Disinfecting Scopes

Flexible endoscopes are difficult to clean and disinfect because they are complex instruments with long, narrow internal channels, delicate materials, and moving parts that can trap tissue, fluid, and microorganisms. The CDC has recognized that flexible endoscopes are “particularly difficult to disinfect” because of their intricate design and delicate materials, and FDA guidance similarly explains that complex device designs present special cleaning challenges.

These difficulties are especially significant for scopes with narrow lumens, elevator mechanisms, hinges, seals, or recessed areas, where biological material can potentially remain after a procedure even if the scope is immediately flushed, brushed, cleaned, dried, and disinfected according to strict reprocessing protocols:

  • Elevator Lever Mechanism: Certain specialized scopes, such as duodenoscopes used during ERCP, have a small movable part (a tiny metal lever, flap or bridge) located near the tip of the scope known as an elevator lever mechanism. By manipulating a control handle at the top of the scope, a physician can raise, lower, and direct accessories such as guidewires, catheters, needles, forceps and other instruments as they pass through the scope, which makes precise access to certain areas, such as the bile or pancreatic ducts, possible. Unfortunately, the elevator mechanism has moving parts, intricate hinges and joints, tight recesses, small crevices, and hard-to-reach surfaces where organic debris can easily become trapped and can make cleaning and disinfection more difficult than with simpler scope designs.
  • Distal Ends and Tip Components: The distal end and tip components of certain endoscopes come into the most direct and prolonged contact with high concentrations of bodily fluids, such as stomach acid and bile. This area can house a camera lens, light guides, and instrument ports, all of which are crowded into a very small surface area. The high density of different materials, including glass, plastic, and metal, can create seams and interfaces where components meet. These areas may allow residual tissue, fluid, or bacteria to accumulate, requiring careful reprocessing to ensure that all accessible surfaces and components of the distal tip are cleaned before the device is used on another patient.
  • Hinges and Joints: The distal tip of some endoscopes contains various hinges and joints that allow the device to bend and navigate the curves of the human body. These mechanical pivot points are essential for maneuverability, but they can retain biological material in recessed areas. During cleaning, some joints may remain partially closed or difficult to access, which can make it harder for brushes or disinfectants to reach contaminated material.
  • Narrow Internal Channels: Reusable endoscopes often contain long, narrow internal channels (lumens) used for air, water, suction, irrigation, and the passage of small instruments during a procedure. These channels are very thin (often measuring only a few millimeters in diameter) and long and can be hard to access during manual cleaning. During a procedure, these lumens are used to suction out fluids or deliver water, allowing fluids and biological material to build up along the inner walls. Because these tubes are long and narrow, they may be prone to biofilm formation or bioburden accumulation, a process in which microbial colonies and organic material build up along internal surfaces. If retained biological material is not removed promptly, it may dry or accumulate along internal surfaces, making later cleaning and disinfection more difficult.
  • Sealed Internal Parts: Because flexible endoscopes contain delicate internal components such as wiring, video chips, and light-guide fiber bundles, some are constructed with water-resistant sealed parts such as shells, O-rings, epoxy seals, and waterproof caps to protect delicate electronics and optical components from fluid damage during reprocessing. However, if a seal, cap, or bonded area becomes damaged, fluid intrusion may create hard-to-access spaces where contamination is difficult to detect or remove. In that situation, pathogens may be protected from normal cleaning and disinfection steps.
  • Material Sensitivity To Cleaning and Disinfecting: Some endoscopes are made of heat-sensitive polymers, rubbers, and delicate fiber-optic glass which cannot be disinfected or heat sterilized using an autoclave (i.e., a high-pressure steam at temperatures of over 250°F) without damaging the materials. Because some endoscope materials are heat-sensitive, facilities often rely on chemical disinfection or sterilization methods rather than steam sterilization. If organic debris or biofilm remains on internal surfaces, these chemicals may not fully contact and disinfect contaminated areas.

If organic debris or biofilm remains inside the scope, disinfectants may not fully contact contaminated surfaces, allowing bacteria or other pathogens to survive and potentially be transmitted to another patient.

Indeed, studies have attributed numerous reported infections to pathogens detected on endoscope elevator mechanisms, wires, channels and other duodenoscope components.

Scopes Are Susceptible To Biofilm Formation

Medical scopes are susceptible to biofilm formation, a sophisticated survival strategy where bacteria transition from free-floating cells to a resilient, multicellular community with a protective layer that shields pathogens from chemical cleaners. This process can begin within minutes of a procedure as proteins and organic debris from the patient adhere to the scope’s internal channels, creating a “conditioning layer.” Bacteria then latch onto this surface and secrete Extracellular Polymeric Substances (EPS), a sticky, sugary matrix that acts as a physical shield. Within this biofilm layer, bacteria may be up to 1,000 times more resistant to antimicrobials than the same organisms in a free-floating state. Because these scopes are often too delicate to be boiled or steamed, the biofilm can protect bacteria from disinfectants and make contamination more difficult to remove from hard-to-reach areas.

Once this biofilm is built inside the scope’s tiny tubes, it is difficult to fully remove during reprocessing. If biofilm remains inside a scope’s internal channels, bacteria may survive cleaning and later be transferred to another patient during a subsequent procedure.

Research Studies on Endoscope Infection Risks

Medical research has found that reusable endoscopes, especially duodenoscopes used during ERCP procedures, can remain contaminated after reprocessing. These studies are important because they support a central safety concern in Olympus scope infection claims: that infections may occur not only because of hospital cleaning errors, but also because certain scope designs may be difficult to fully disinfect.

For example, a Lancet study, published in 2020, reported a 15.25% contamination rate among reprocessed, patient-ready duodenoscopes.

A Dutch study from 2018 found that 20% of sampled ready-to-use duodenoscopes were contaminated with microorganisms, and that 15% had micro-organisms of gut or oral origin (MGO), including Enterobacter cloacae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia and yeasts.

Another widely cited study published in JAMA in 2014 investigated an outbreak of New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase–producing carbapenem-resistant E. coli associated with duodenoscope use at an Illinois hospital. Investigators identified 39 patients between January and December 2013, 35 of whom had been exposed to duodenoscopes. The study found no recognized lapses in reprocessing, but NDM-producing E. coli was recovered from a reprocessed duodenoscope, leading researchers to conclude that bacterial contamination may persist despite recommended cleaning procedures.

Timeline of Endoscope Infection Warnings

Over the past decade, regulators, hospitals, and public health agencies have raised concerns about contamination and infection risks linked to reusable endoscopes, especially duodenoscopes used during ERCP procedures. Key developments include:

  • (2013): CDC Alerted FDA to Possible Infection Link. The CDC alerted the FDA to a possible connection between multidrug-resistant bacterial infections and duodenoscopes.
  • (2015): UCLA CRE Outbreak. UCLA notified 179 patients that they may have been exposed to CRE, a dangerous antibiotic-resistant “superbug,” after complex endoscopic procedures.
  • (2015): FDA Devices Panel Convenes. FDA convened the Gastroenterology-Urology Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee to discuss importance of designing duodenoscopes that can be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
  • (2015): FDA Warns That Endoscope Design May Impede Cleaning and Disinfecting. The FDA warned that the complex design of duodenoscopes may make them difficult to fully clean and disinfect, even when reprocessing instructions are followed.
  • (2015): FDA Issues Safety Communications on Duodenoscope Reprocessing. FDA warned that endoscopes can transmit infections if they are not completely cleaned and disinfected and that additional steps beyond adherence to manufacturer’s reprocessing instructions may be needed to further reduce infection risk.
  • (2015): FDA Orders Studies On Duodenoscope Reprocessing. The FDA ordered scope manufacturers (Olympus, Fujifilm, and Pentax) to conduct post market surveillance studies on duodenoscope reprocessing and contamination rates.
  • (2016): Senate Investigation Finds Broader Oversight Problems. A U.S. Senate investigation raised broader concerns about manufacturer reporting, hospital awareness, and FDA oversight of duodenoscope-related infections.
  • (2017): FDA Publishes Duodenoscope Sampling and Culturing Protocols. FDA published protocols for duodenoscope surveillance sampling and culturing to help facilities detect bacterial contamination and evaluate if reprocessing practices were reducing infection risk.
  • (2018): FDA Issues Warning Letters Over Failure to Provide Data. FDA warned manufacturers of duodenoscopes (Fujifilm Medical Systems USA, Inc., Olympus Medical Systems Corporation, and Pentax of America) regarding the failure to provide sufficient data to address the post market surveillance studies it ordered.
  • (2018): Olympus Pleads Guilty Over Failure to Report Serious Infections. According to the DOJ, Olympus Medical Systems Corporation pleaded guilty to distributing endoscopes after failing to file required adverse event reports involving serious infections linked to duodenoscopes, agreeing to pay $80 million in criminal penalties and $5 million in criminal forfeiture.
  • (2018): FDA Reports Higher Than Expected Contamination Rates For Duodenoscopes. The FDA reported interim results from the ongoing mandated postmarket surveillance studies of duodenoscopes reprocessing, finding higher than expected contamination rates after duodenoscope reprocessing.
  • (2019): FDA Recommends Disposable Duodenoscopes To Reduce Infections. The FDA recommended transitioning to duodenoscopes with disposable components, or fully disposable duodenoscopes, to reduce infection risk.
  • (2022): FDA Again Recommends Disposable Duodenoscopes To Reduce Infection Risk. The FDA again supported moving away from fixed-endcap duodenoscopes and toward designs that are easier to clean or partially disposable, finding that disposable designs may reduce between-patient duodenoscope contamination by half or more as compared to reusable, or fixed endcaps.
  • (2022): FDA Again Reports Higher Than Expected Contamination Rates For Duodenoscopes. The FDA reported interim results from the ongoing mandated post market surveillance studies of duodenoscopes reprocessing, again finding higher than expected contamination rates after duodenoscope reprocessing and noting that “as high as 6.6% of samples tested positive with high concern organisms after contamination.”
  • (2022): FDA Confirms Withdrawal Of Fixed Endcap Duodenoscopes From Market. Following safety recommendations from the FDA, FDA confirms that all three major manufacturers (Olympus, Pentax, and Fujifilm) had transitioned away from fixed-endcap duodenoscopes in the U.S. market in favor of designs that were easier to clean and disinfect.
  • (2023): FDA Issues Warning Letters to Olympus. The FDA warned Olympus-related entities about medical device reporting and quality system concerns for endoscopes and accessories.
  • (2025): FDA Issues Import Alerts for Certain Olympus Medical Devices. The FDA issued import alerts for certain Olympus medical devices manufactured in Japan and later posted a recall record for certain Olympus duodenoscopes citing continued reports of positive cultures and infections.

For a more detailed history, see our full Endoscope Infection Timeline.

Medical Scope Infection Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of infection from a medical scope, such as an endoscope or duodenoscope, can include:

  • Fever (pyrexia)
  • Chills and shivering
  • Fatigue and malaise
  • Aches and pains
  • Abdominal pain
  • Chest pain
  • Myalgia (muscle pain)
  • Arthralgia (joint pain)
  • Pain at affected site
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Cough
  • Erythema (redness)
  • Edema (swelling)
  • Pus, drainage or discharge
  • Swollen or tender lymph nodes
  • Shortness of breath
  • Rapid breathing (tachypnea)
  • Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Drop in blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Bloody stool (dysentery)
  • Painful urination (dysuria)
  • Blood in urine (hematuria)
  • Decreased urine output (oliguria)
  • Confusion, lethargy, or disorientation
  • Jaundice
  • Other symptoms or signs of infection

Patients who develop infections after ERCP or another contaminated-scope procedure may experience symptoms within hours or days of the procedure; though some infections may not become apparent for weeks. Patients experiencing fever, chills, abdominal pain, breathing problems, confusion, low blood pressure, or other signs of serious infection after an endoscopic procedure should seek immediate medical care.

Procedures and tests used by emergency medicine doctors, critical care physicians, gastroenterologists, infections disease doctors and other physicians to diagnose infection include physical examination and vital-sign assessment; blood tests (such as a complete blood count, inflammatory markers, lactate, kidney and liver function tests); blood cultures; cultures from suspected infection sites such as urine, sputum, wound drainage, bile, or other body fluids; Gram stain and other microbiology testing; antibiotic susceptibility testing; biopsies, and imaging studies such as chest X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to identify the source or extent of infection.

Types Of Infections From Endoscopes

Infections associated with endoscopes can involve a range of organisms, depending on the type of scope used, the procedure performed, the patient’s underlying health, and the source of contamination. Because endoscopes may contact mucous membranes, bodily fluids, bile ducts, lungs, urinary tract tissue, or other internal areas, contaminated instruments can transmit bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other pathogens.

Reported endoscope-associated infections include certain bacterial infections that can antibiotic-resistant such as methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), carbapenem-resistant enterobacteriaceae (CRE), pseudomonas aeruginosa, klebsiella pneumoniae, escherichia Coli (e-coli), enterococcus, tuberculosis (TB), salmonella, serratia marcescens, acinetobacter baumannii, stenotrophomonas maltophilia and some viral infections such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), among others:

  • Antibiotic Resistant Bacterial Infections (Superbugs): A “superbug” infection refers to an infection caused by bacteria that have developed resistance to multiple antibiotics, making them difficult to treat with standard medications. These organisms are not a single species but include several types of resistant bacteria such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE), and drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In healthcare settings, superbugs are especially concerning because they can spread through contaminated equipment, including improperly reprocessed medical scopes. When introduced into the body during a procedure, they can cause serious infections like pneumonia, bloodstream infections, or sepsis that are harder to control and may require stronger, more toxic, or limited treatment options. Superbug infections are associated with longer hospital stays and increased risk of complications and death.
  • Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) Infections: Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infections are caused by a group of bacteria that have developed resistance to carbapenems, which are often considered last-resort antibiotics for severe infections. These bacteria, including species like Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli, are particularly dangerous because they are difficult to treat and can spread in healthcare settings. In the context of medical scopes, CRE infections have been linked to contaminated endoscopes and duodenoscopes where complex device designs can allow bacteria to persist even after standard disinfection. When transmitted to patients during procedures, CRE can cause serious infections such as pneumonia, bloodstream infections, or urinary tract infections, and they are associated with higher rates of complications and mortality due to limited treatment options.
  • Klebsiella Pneumoniae Infections: Klebsiella pneumoniae is a type of Gram-negative bacteria that commonly lives in the human intestines without causing harm, but it can become dangerous if it spreads to other parts of the body. It is a well-known cause of serious infections such as pneumonia, bloodstream infections, urinary tract infections, and surgical site infections. In the context of medical scopes, Klebsiella pneumoniae is particularly concerning because it can survive in inadequately cleaned endoscopes and be transmitted from one patient to another. Some strains have developed strong antibiotic resistance, including forms classified as carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE), making infections difficult to treat. When introduced into vulnerable areas of the body during procedures, this bacterium can lead to severe complications.
  • Escherichia Coli (E-Coli) Infections: Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a type of Gram-negative bacteria that normally lives in the intestines of humans and plays a role in digestion. E. coli is a common cause of urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, and gastrointestinal illness. In the context of medical scopes, E. coli can be transmitted if endoscopic equipment is not properly cleaned and disinfected, allowing bacteria from a previous patient to contaminate the device. When introduced into sterile areas during a procedure, it can lead to infections.
  • Enterococcus Infections: An enterococcus infection is caused by bacteria from the genus enterococcus, most commonly enterococcus faecalis and enterococcus faecium. These bacteria normally live in the gastrointestinal tract and are part of the body’s natural flora, but they can cause infections if they spread to other areas of the body. enterococcus is a frequent cause of urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, wound infections, and infections of the heart valves (endocarditis). In the context of medical scopes, these bacteria can be transmitted if endoscopic equipment is not properly cleaned and disinfected, allowing organisms from one patient to contaminate another. Some strains, known as vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), are particularly concerning because they are resistant to common antibiotics, making infections more difficult to treat and increasing the risk of complications.
  • Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) Infections: Staphylococcus aureus is a type of Gram-positive bacteria commonly found on the skin and in the noses of healthy people, where it usually does not cause harm. However, when it enters the body through medical devices or procedures, it can cause a range of infections, including skin infections, pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and surgical site infections. A particularly concerning form is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which has developed resistance to many commonly used antibiotics, making it harder to treat. In the context of medical scopes, MRSA can be transmitted if equipment or the surrounding environment is contaminated, leading to infection when the bacteria are introduced into the body during a procedure. MRSA infections can become severe, and may lead to complications such as sepsis if not treated promptly.
  • Pseudomonas Infections: A Pseudomonas infection is caused by bacteria from the genus Pseudomonas, most commonly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a Gram-negative organism known for its ability to survive in moist environments and resist many antibiotics. These infections may include pneumonia (especially in ventilated patients), urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, and wound infections. In the context of medical scopes, Pseudomonas is particularly concerning because it can persist in improperly cleaned or inadequately dried endoscopic equipment, forming biofilms that protect it from disinfectants. When introduced into the body during a procedure, it can cause difficult-to-treat infections and, in severe cases, may progress to sepsis.
  • Tuberculosis (TB) Infections: Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which primarily affects the lungs but can also involve other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, or brain. In healthcare settings, TB is a concern during procedures involving the respiratory tract, such as bronchoscopy. TB infections can be serious, especially in those with weakened immune systems, but they are treatable with a long course of specialized antibiotics.
  • Salmonella Infections: Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal illness, diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, and, in severe cases, bloodstream infection.
  • Serratia Marcescens Infections: Serratia marcescens is a bacteria that can cause bloodstream infections, respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, wound infections, and hospital-associated infections.
  • Acinetobacter Baumannii Infections: Acinetobacter baumannii is a healthcare-associated bacteria that can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infections, wound infections, urinary tract infections, and sepsis. Some strains are multidrug-resistant.
  • Stenotrophomonas Maltophilia Infections: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a healthcare-associated bacteria that can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and infections in people with weakened immune systems.
  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infections: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 (T) cells, which help fight infections. Over time, if untreated, HIV can weaken the immune system to the point where the body has difficulty defending itself against infections and certain cancers, a condition known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Infections can lead to a wide spectrum of injuries and complications, ranging from localized tissue destruction to life-threatening systemic collapse. When a pathogen invades, the resulting damage is often a combination of the germ’s direct attack and the body’s aggressive (and sometimes self-destructive) immune response.

Infection injuries can include bacteremia, sepsis, septic shock, cholangitis, pneumonia, organ failure and death, among others:

  • Bacteremia: Bacteremia is the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. It can occur temporarily, such as after certain medical procedures involving scopes, when bacteria are introduced into the blood from areas like the gastrointestinal or respiratory tract. In many cases, the immune system clears these bacteria quickly without causing symptoms. However, if the bacteria persist or the person has a weakened immune system, bacteremia can lead to more serious infections, including sepsis. In the context of medical scopes, bacteremia may result from contaminated equipment or disruption of mucosal barriers during a procedure, allowing microorganisms to enter the bloodstream.
  • Sepsis: Sepsis is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication that can occur when pathogens introduced during a procedure enter the bloodstream and trigger a systemic inflammatory response. This is most often associated with inadequately reprocessed endoscopes, particularly those with complex internal channels that can harbor bacteria such as multidrug-resistant organisms. When these microorganisms are transmitted to a patient, especially one who is already vulnerable or immunocompromised, a localized infection can rapidly progress to sepsis. The condition is characterized by widespread inflammation, organ dysfunction, and, in severe cases, septic shock. Because procedures involving scopes often access sterile or semi-sterile areas of the body, even a small amount of contamination can have significant consequences, making strict adherence to cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization protocols critical for prevention.
  • Septic shock: Septic shock is the most severe form of sepsis and is a life-threatening condition that occurs when an infection leads to dangerously low blood pressure and widespread organ dysfunction. It develops when the body’s response to infection becomes overwhelming, causing severe inflammation, impaired blood flow, and damage to vital organs such as the kidneys, lungs, and heart. In the context of medical scopes, septic shock can occur if harmful bacteria are introduced into the bloodstream during a procedure, especially if the equipment is contaminated or if the patient is already vulnerable. Symptoms may include persistent low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, confusion, difficulty breathing, and decreased urine output. Septic shock requires immediate medical treatment, often involving antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and medications to support blood pressure, as it carries a high risk of mortality if not treated promptly.
  • Cholangitis: Cholangitis is an infection of the bile ducts, which are the tubes that carry bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. It usually occurs when these ducts become blocked (commonly by gallstones, strictures, or tumors) allowing bacteria to grow and spread. In the context of medical scopes, cholangitis is most often associated with procedures like ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography), where instruments are inserted into the bile ducts. If the scope is contaminated or if bacteria are introduced during the procedure, an infection can develop. Symptoms typically include fever, abdominal pain (especially in the upper right side), and jaundice, a combination known as Charcot’s triad. Cholangitis can become severe and lead to sepsis if not treated promptly with antibiotics and, in many cases, procedures to relieve the blockage.
  • Pneumonia: Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes inflammation in the air sacs (alveoli), which may fill with fluid or pus and make breathing difficult. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, with common symptoms including cough, fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. In healthcare settings, pneumonia can develop when microorganisms are introduced into the respiratory tract, including during procedures involving bronchoscopes. If a medical scope is contaminated or not properly disinfected, bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus aureus may be transmitted into the lungs, leading to infection. Pneumonia can range from mild to severe and may become life-threatening, particularly in older adults, hospitalized patients, or those with weakened immune systems.
  • Organ Failure: Organ failure from infections related to medical scopes is a severe complication that occurs when an infection spreads throughout the body and disrupts the function of vital organs. This typically develops when bacteria introduced during a procedure (often due to contaminated or improperly reprocessed scopes) enter the bloodstream and trigger a widespread inflammatory response, such as sepsis. As the infection progresses, it can impair blood flow and oxygen delivery to organs, leading to dysfunction in systems such as the kidneys (kidney failure), lungs (respiratory failure), heart (cardiovascular instability), or liver. In some cases, multiple organs may fail at once, a condition known as multi-organ failure. Patients who are older, critically ill, or immunocompromised are at especially high risk. Prompt recognition and treatment are critical, as organ failure significantly increases the risk of long-term complications and mortality.
  • Death: Death is the most severe outcome of infections associated with medical scopes and can occur when complications such as sepsis, septic shock, or multi-organ failure are not successfully treated. If harmful microorganisms are introduced into the body during a procedure (from contaminated or improperly disinfected equipment) they can lead to rapidly progressing infections. In vulnerable patients, these infections may overwhelm the immune system, causing widespread inflammation, severe drops in blood pressure, and failure of critical organs, such as the lungs, kidneys, heart, and liver. If this process is not quickly controlled with appropriate medical treatment, it can progress to multi-organ failure and ultimately death.

Medical Treatment For Infection Complications

Medical treatment for infection complications depends on the type of infection, how severe it is, and which parts of the body are affected. In many cases, treatment begins with prompt medical evaluation, laboratory testing, imaging, and other diagnostic measures to determine the source of the infection and whether it has spread. Early diagnosis is important because infections associated with medical procedures can worsen quickly and may require urgent intervention.

Antibiotics And Other Medications: Many patients with infection complications are treated with antibiotics or other anti-infective medications. The specific medication may depend on the suspected organism, the site of infection, and whether the patient is showing signs of a resistant or more serious infection. In some cases, doctors may begin broad-spectrum antibiotics right away and later adjust treatment once culture results or other test findings become available.

Hospitalization and IV Antibiotics: When an infection causes more serious complications, treatment may require hospitalization and supportive care. Patients may need intravenous fluids, IV antibiotics, pain control, oxygen, close monitoring, and treatment for fever, dehydration, or low blood pressure (such as vasopressor medications that tighten blood vessels to keep blood flowing to the brain and heart). If the infection progresses into the bloodstream or leads to sepsis, emergency care may be required to stabilize the patient and prevent organ damage. In some cases, treatment may require mechanical ventilation (for respiratory failure caused by pneumonia or sepsis), dialysis (if an infection causes the kidneys to fail) or immunotherapy using corticosteroids (to dampen an overactive immune response).

Surgery and Follow-Up Imaging: Some infection-related complications also require additional medical procedures or surgeries. For example, doctors may need to drain an abscess, remove infected tissue (debridement), place a stent, relieve an obstruction, or perform another procedure to address the source of the infection. In gastrointestinal, urinary, or respiratory infections, treatment may include repeat imaging or follow-up procedures to ensure the infection has been controlled and that no further complications are developing.

Prognosis: Recovery can vary from patient to patient. Some individuals improve with medication alone, while others may face prolonged hospitalization, follow-up visits, repeat testing, rehabilitation, or treatment for lasting complications. Because infections can become life-threatening if left untreated, anyone who develops symptoms such as fever, chills, worsening pain, shortness of breath, confusion, or other signs of serious illness after a medical procedure should seek prompt medical attention.

Compensation Possible For Olympus Medical Scope Infection Injury Lawsuit Cases

Compensation For Olympus Scope Injury Claims

Plaintiffs who bring an Olympus medical scope infection lawsuit may be able to recover compensation for the injuries and harm suffered, including money damages for:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of wages or earnings due to missed work
  • Loss of future earning capacity
  • Medical care expenses incurred or to be incurred
  • Other out of pocket expenses
  • Loss of quality or enjoyment of life
  • Mental anguish/emotional distress
  • Loss of consortium
  • Other possible monetary damages

Certain family and loved ones of individuals who may have died as a result of an infection may be able to recover financial compensation from an Olympus wrongful death lawsuit or settlement claim. Olympus wrongful death lawsuit damages might include, among other things, pecuniary losses suffered by a surviving spouse or next of kin of the deceased family member, such as past and future loss of money, income, benefits, goods, services, or loss of society (i.e., love, affection, care, attention, companionship, comfort, guidance, and protection).

Time Is Limited To File An Olympus Scope Lawsuit

Deadlines called statutes of limitation and statutes of repose may limit the amount of time that individuals have to file an Olympus medical scope infection lawsuit to try to recover compensation for injuries they claimed to have suffered after having colonoscopy, ERCP, endoscopy or other procedure involving an Olympus endoscope or duodenoscope.

This means that if an Olympus lawsuit case is not filed before the applicable time limit or deadline, the claimant may be prohibited from ever pursuing litigation or taking legal action regarding the medical scope injury claim. That is why it is important to connect with an Olympus medical scope injury lawyer or attorney as soon as possible.

If you (or a loved one) were injured or suffered complications after having a colonoscopy, ERCP, bronchoscopy, endoscopy or other procedure involving an Olympus endoscope or duodenoscope, you may be entitled to recover compensation from an Olympus endoscope lawsuit case or settlement claim. Contact a medical device injury lawyer to request a free case review.

*This page is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. If you or a loved one are experiencing health issues, side effects or complications from a medical device or healthcare product, we urge you to promptly consult with your doctor or physician for an evaluation.

**The listing of a company (e.g., Olympus America, Inc., Olympus Corporation of the Americas, Olympus Medical Systems Corp. etc.) or product (e.g., Olympus endoscope or duodenoscope, etc.) is not meant to state or imply that the company acted illegally or improperly or that the product is unsafe or defective; rather only that an investigation may be, is or was being conducted to determine whether legal rights have been violated.

***The use of any trademarks, tradenames or service marks is solely for product identification and/or informational purposes.

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Have You or A Loved One Suffered An Infection or Related Complications After Having A Medical Procedure Involving An Olympus Medical Scope (i.e., Endoscope or Duodenoscope)?
You May Be Entitled To Recover Money From An Olympus Medical Scope Infection Lawsuit Case or Settlement Claim!
Fill out this form to request a free case review by an injury lawyer.
after procedure involving a medical scope, did you or a loved one suffer from:
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