Menetrier's Disease

Menetrier's disease is a rare acquired disorder of the fundus and body of the stomach (ie, oxyntic mucosa) characterized by giant hyperplastic folds, protein-losing gastropathy, hypoalbuminemia, increased mucus secretion, and hypochlorhydria. Recent research implicates overproduction of transforming growth factor-alpha with increased signaling of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in the pathogenesis. Activation of the EGFR, a transmembrane receptor with tyrosine kinase activity, triggers a cascade of downstream, intracellular signaling pathways that leads to expansion of the proliferative compartment within the isthmus of the oxyntic gland. The diagnosis of Menetrier's disease is based upon characteristic histologic changes, including foveolar hyperplasia, cystic dilation of pits, and reduced numbers of parietal and chief cells. The best treatment for Menetrier's disease is not clear. It seems reasonable to test and treat for cytomegalovirus and Helicobacter pylori, as 1) in children, evidence exists that the disease may be due to cytomegalovirus infection in up to one third of patients; and 2) in adults, there are anecdotal reports of resolution upon H. pylori eradication. More recently, therapies targeting increased signaling of the EGFR have shown promise, including somatostatin analogues and monoclonal antibodies (eg, cetuximab) directed against the EGFR. In refractory cases, gastrectomy is curative.