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Published on: March 22, 2017
Chronic eosinophilic ascites in a very young child
Arrigo Vittorio Barabino1, Emanuela Castellano, Paolo Gandullia
1Paediatric Gastroenterology Unit, G. Gaslini Institute, L.go G. Gaslini 5, 16148 Genoa, Italy. arrigobarabino@ospedale-gaslini.ge.it
European Journal of Pediatrics
|August 14, 2003
Summary
Chronic eosinophilic ascites, a rare childhood disorder, requires consideration in infants with ascites. This case highlights steroid-dependency and complications like hemorrhage.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Hematology
Background:
- Ascites in early infancy necessitates a thorough differential diagnosis.
- Chronic eosinophilic ascites is an exceptionally rare condition in pediatric populations.
Observation:
- A case study details a child diagnosed with chronic eosinophilic ascites at two years of age.
- The diagnostic process involved excluding other common causes of pediatric ascites.
- The condition presented with a significant eosinophil count in the ascitic fluid.
Findings:
- The patient experienced an ex vacuo intraperitoneal hemorrhage, a complication of ascites management.
- Complete aspiration of ascitic fluid (1600 ml) was required for initial disease control with steroids.
- Recurrence of peritoneal inflammation upon steroid discontinuation indicated steroid-dependency.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering eosinophilic ascites in the differential diagnosis of pediatric ascites.
- Early diagnosis and management strategies for this rare condition are crucial.
- Understanding steroid-dependency is key for long-term patient care.
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