Pathophysiology in Microvillus inclusion disease

K Reinshagen1, H Naim, G Heusipp

  • 1Kinderchirurgische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Mannheim. konrad.reinshagen@kch.ma.uni-heidelberg.de

Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie
|August 12, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Microvillus inclusion disease (MID) causes severe watery diarrhea in newborns. This review covers its pathology, current pathogenetic hypotheses, and treatment options beyond intestinal transplantation.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Pediatric Pathology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Microvillus inclusion disease (MID) is a rare congenital enteropathy.
  • Characterized by severe watery diarrhea from birth.
  • Pathological hallmarks include villus atrophy and PAS-positive inclusions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current understanding of MID pathogenesis.
  • To discuss diagnostic criteria.
  • To explore therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on Microvillus inclusion disease.
  • Analysis of light and electron microscopy findings.
  • Discussion of molecular and genetic data.

Main Results:

  • Electron microscopy reveals characteristic microvillus inclusion bodies (MIBs) and secretory granules.
  • Specific molecular defects underlying MID are still under investigation.
  • Pathogenesis involves defects in apical enterocyte differentiation.

Conclusions:

  • MID diagnosis relies on characteristic histopathological findings.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate molecular causes.
  • Management includes supportive care and consideration of small bowel transplantation.

Related Concept Videos

Microvilli00:55

Microvilli

Microvilli are tiny finger-like projections found on the surface of certain cells. Their purpose is to increase the surface area of the cell's apical surface, resulting in more effective absorption or secretion of substances.
These microvilli are predominantly present in cells lining the small intestine, kidney tubules, and certain cells in the respiratory and reproductive systems. By significantly expanding the surface area of the cell membrane, microvilli enhance the cell's capacity to...
Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis01:23

Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis

Cystic fibrosis (CF), an autosomal recessive disorder, significantly affects the function of exocrine glands. This genetically inherited disease is characterized by the production of thick and sticky mucus, which can severely affect various organs and systems in the body.
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation, but...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Ulcerative Colitis01:20

Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the colon characterized by continuous mucosal inflammation that typically begins in the rectum and extends proximally in a uniform pattern. Its pathogenesis involves a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, immune dysregulation, and environmental influences. These factors converge to impair the colon’s epithelial defenses and promote an exaggerated inflammatory response against luminal contents.Breakdown of the Mucosal BarrierA...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Crohn's Disease01:25

Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Crohn's Disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic, relapsing form of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by segmental, transmural inflammation that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Its pathogenesis arises from a combination of genetic susceptibility, environmental exposures, epithelial barrier dysfunction, and immune dysregulation. Together, these factors lead to an exaggerated immune response against components of the gut microbiome.Genetic and Environmental InfluencesMultiple genetic...
Acute Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology01:21

Acute Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis centers on injury to pancreatic acinar cells, which initiates a cascade of harmful intracellular events.This injury leads to premature activation of trypsinogen to trypsin in the pancreas. Trypsin then activates other digestive enzymes, such as chymotrypsin, elastase, and phospholipase A2, which begin breaking down pancreatic tissue. The resulting autodigestion causes local inflammation, tissue swelling, hemorrhage, and fat necrosis.Injured acinar cells...
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology01:21

Chronic Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology

Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive and irreversible inflammation of the pancreas, most often caused by long-term alcohol abuse, but it can also be related to ductal obstruction, smoking, or genetic factors.Chronic pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas is repeatedly exposed to harmful agents like alcohol, smoking, ductal obstruction, or genetic predisposition. These factors lead to the release of toxic metabolites and inflammatory cytokines, sustaining chronic inflammation in the pancreatic...