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[Hypertrophic protein-losing gastropathy: Ménétrier disease. A clinical case]
Introduction:
Ménétrier disease is a rare disorder characterized by gastric foveolar hyperplasia associated with secondary protein loss. In children, this condition is presented as an edematous syndrome without renal or hepatic impairment and differs from the adult form by the constant presence of edema and spontaneous remission. It has been related to infections in most published cases, especially to Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
Objective:
To present a pediatric case of Ménétrier disease and endoscopic imaging obtained during the evolution of the patient.
Case Report:
A five year old preschooler who presented a generalized edema, abdominal pain and malaise. After ruling out renal and hepatic pathologies, an upper endoscopy revealed a severe compromise of the gastric mucosa. Urease test for H. pylori and IgG test for CMV resulted positive. Albumin and H2 receptor antagonists were administered. The evolution was favorable and the patient was discharged after 14 days; 8 month follow-up endoscopy showed no abnormalities.
Conclusion:
The medical profile and endoscopy are enough evidence to suggest the diagnosis of hypertrophic protein-losing gastropathy. Further studies need to be developed that include a considerable number of patients to assess their association with CMV or H. pylori infections, as these viruses are very common in our population.
Insights
Pediatric Ménétrier disease, a rare protein-losing gastropathy, presents with edema. This case highlights the link between this condition and infections like Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Rare Diseases
- Gastrointestinal Disorders
Background:
- Ménétrier disease is a rare disorder causing gastric foveolar hyperplasia and protein loss.
- In children, it manifests as edema without renal or hepatic issues, often linked to Cytomegalovirus (CMV) or Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections.
Observation:
- A five-year-old child presented with generalized edema, abdominal pain, and malaise.
- Endoscopy revealed severe gastric mucosa compromise, with positive tests for H. pylori and CMV.
Findings:
- The patient received albumin and H2 receptor antagonists, showing a favorable outcome.
- An 8-month follow-up endoscopy confirmed the absence of abnormalities, indicating spontaneous remission.
Implications:
- Diagnosis of hypertrophic protein-losing gastropathy can be supported by clinical presentation and endoscopy.
- Further research is needed to establish a definitive association between Ménétrier disease and CMV/H. pylori infections in a larger pediatric cohort.
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