Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Granulocyte-dependent Autoantibody-induced Skin Blistering
Published on: October 12, 2012
Pemphigus vulgaris as a possible cause of protein-losing gastroenteropathy: a case report
Takashi Ishige1, Hiroaki Kaneko, Tomoko Suzuki
1Department of Paediatrics and Developmental Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan. ishiget@showa.gunma-u.ac.jp
Abstract:
We present a case of pemphigus vulgaris (PV) accompanied with protein-losing gastroenteropathy (PLE). A 9-year-old girl developed multiple oral ulcerations and erosions. She was first treated with oral antibiotics and a topical steroid without improvement. Laboratory data showed eosinophilia (absolute eosinophil count 1.08 x 10(9)/L) and hypoproteinemia (total serum protein 3.9 g/dL, albumin 2.2 g/dL). A biopsy specimen from the ileum showed intense eosinophil infiltration and albumin scintigraphy demonstrated protein exduation from the same site. Endoscopic examination of the oesophagus showed multiple ulcerations and erosions, and biopsy specimen showed eosinophilic spongiosis and immunohistologic staining demonstrated deposits of IgG and C3 in the intercellular space. Antidesmoglein-3 antibody elevated, she was diagnosed as PV complicated with PLE. Immunofluorescence study of a biopsy specimen from the terminal ileum showed no significant immunoglobulin or complement deposition, and autoantibody against intestinal mucosa was unclear in this case. Gastrointestinal evaluations should be considered in patients with hypoproteinemia associated with PV.
Related Concept Videos
Peptic Ulcer
Peptic Ulcer Disease I: Introduction
An acute ulcer, marked by superficial erosion and minimal inflammation, swiftly resolves upon identifying and addressing the underlying cause. In contrast, a chronic ulcer persists, potentially eroding through the muscular wall and forming fibrous tissue.
Peptic ulcers can also be...
Peptic Ulcer Disease I: Introduction
Gastritis-II: Pathophysiology
In acute gastritis, the gastric mucosa becomes swollen and red and undergoes superficial erosion. Superficial ulceration may lead to bleeding.
In chronic gastritis, persistent or repeated insults lead to chronic inflammatory changes and, eventually, thinning or atrophy of the gastric tissue.
Gastritis can stem from various causes, each...
Gastritis II: Pathophysiology
Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Complications
