[Cytomegalovirus-induced protein-losing gastropathy: a case report]

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Published on: October 18, 2018

C Pederiva1, A Ruscitto, I Brunetti

  • 1Clinica Pediatrica, Ospedale San Paolo, Università di Milano.

La Pediatria Medica E Chirurgica : Medical and Surgical Pediatrics
|May 31, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric protein-losing gastropathy, or Menetrier's disease, is rare. This case highlights Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection as a potential cause in children, suggesting a link between CMV and this uncommon condition.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Virology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Protein-losing gastropathy, also known as Menetrier's disease, is an uncommon condition with uncertain causes.
  • Pediatric cases are rare, typically presenting with a benign and transient course requiring supportive care.

Observation:

  • A pediatric case presented with vomiting, weight loss, abdominal pain, and hypoalbuminemia.
  • The patient exhibited hypertrophic gastropathy with significant protein loss.

Findings:

  • Gastric mucosal biopsy confirmed morphological evidence of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection.
  • This finding supports the hypothesis of CMV's role in the pathogenesis of pediatric Menetrier's disease.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential role of Cytomegalovirus in pediatric protein-losing gastropathy.
  • Suggests diagnostic consideration of CMV in similar pediatric cases.
  • Contributes to understanding the etiology of uncommon pediatric gastrointestinal disorders.

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