[Protein-losing enteropathy during chronic liquid pericarditis]

Archives Francaises De Pediatrie
|March 1, 1975
PubMed

Insights

Chronic pericarditis in a young child led to severe hypoalbuminemia and protein-losing enteropathy. This condition, characterized by low albumin and specific protein levels, was linked to venous hypertension from the pericarditis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Chronic pericarditis can lead to significant systemic complications.
  • Understanding the link between cardiac conditions and gastrointestinal issues is crucial.

Observation:

  • A 2.5-year-old girl presented with chronic pericarditis and severe hypoalbuminemia.
  • Decreased levels of plasma-bound iodine (PBI), gamma-globulins, and ceruloplasmin were noted.

Findings:

  • The patient exhibited protein-losing enteropathy, confirmed histologically.
  • Venous hypertension secondary to chronic pericarditis was identified as a potential cause.

Implications:

  • This case highlights a rare complication of chronic pericarditis in pediatric patients.
  • It underscores the importance of investigating gastrointestinal symptoms in children with cardiac conditions.
  • Early diagnosis and management of venous hypertension may prevent enteropathy.

Related Concept Videos

Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction01:24

Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction

The pancreas, an elongated and flat gland situated behind the stomach, serves a vital function in digesting food and managing blood sugar levels.
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
Pericarditis I: Introduction01:22

Pericarditis I: Introduction

Pericarditis is defined as the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. This condition can cause significant chest pain and other symptoms, often necessitating medical intervention. The pericardium has two layers: the inner visceral layer and the outer parietal layer, separated by a small amount of fluid that reduces friction during heartbeats.Types of PericarditisPericarditis can be classified into several types based on the duration and nature of the...
Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:19

Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Pericarditis is distinguished by inflammation of the pericardium, the fibrous sac that encases the heart. It can be acute, lasting less than six weeks, or chronic, persisting for over three months. Understanding its clinical manifestations and diagnostic findings is crucial for timely and effective management.Clinical ManifestationsWhile pericarditis can be asymptomatic, it usually presents with characteristic symptoms such as:Chest Pain: The most characteristic symptom of pericarditis is chest...
Pericarditis III: Medical Management01:17

Pericarditis III: Medical Management

The primary objectives of managing pericarditis are to determine the underlying cause, provide effective therapy for treatment and symptom relief, and promptly detect signs and symptoms of cardiac tamponade. The following outlines the essential aspects of medical management for pericarditis:ObjectivesDetermine the Cause: Identifying the underlying cause of pericarditis is crucial for targeted treatment. Causes include viral infections, autoimmune diseases, post-cardiac injury syndrome, and...
Pericarditis IV: Nursing Management01:25

Pericarditis IV: Nursing Management

Pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium, necessitates diligent nursing management to ensure effective patient care and recovery. The initial step in managing pericarditis is a comprehensive patient medical assessment.The patient reports chest pain aggravated by breathing, coughing, and swallowing, which worsens when lying supine. The pain often improves when sitting up and leaning forward. Additional symptoms may include fever, malaise, and, in severe cases, signs of heart failure.
Ascites01:19

Ascites

DefinitionAscites is the buildup of fluid inside the peritoneal cavity. It occurs when fluid moves out of the vascular system faster than the peritoneal lymphatics can remove it. This fluid shift is most commonly seen in liver cirrhosis but can also appear in several other systemic disorders.EtiologyCirrhosis remains the leading cause of ascites. Other conditions that can contribute include:Heart failureConstrictive pericarditisAbdominal cancersNephrotic syndromeSevere protein–calorie...