Two autopsy cases of diffuse gastrointestinal polyposis with ectodermal changes. Cronkhite-Canada syndrome

Two autopsy cases of Cronkhite-Canada syndrome were reported. The caused of hypoproteinemia, electrolyte imbalance and ectodermal changes were discussed with reference to previously reported cases. The mechanism of protein loss was probably due to outflow into the intestinal lumen of the mucous substance in the cystically dilated glands, directly and/or indirectly followed by loss of mucosal surface. Electrolyte imbalance probably developed from gastrointestinal loss as well as poor substitution. The ectodermal changes were probably not a subsequent part of the emaciation or hypoproteinemis, but an inherent part of this disease. Therapy, whether substitution or surgical procedure, should be selected in order to control the general condition of the patient.