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Protein losing enteropathy caused by eosinophilic gastroenteritis: A case report
Jiajie Zhu1, Xiaolan Su1, Yu Guo1
1Department of Gastroenterology, Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100102, China.
Summary
Protein losing enteropathy (PLE) is a rare condition causing low protein. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of PLE, particularly when complicated by eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EG).
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Protein losing enteropathy (PLE) is a rare gastrointestinal disorder characterized by hypoproteinemia and edema, stemming from excessive protein loss in the gut.
- Diagnosis of PLE is often challenging due to its diverse and complex underlying causes.
Observation:
- A patient presented with acute diarrhea and hypoproteinemia, initially showing digestive ulcers and colon polyps on endoscopy.
- Despite initial treatments including albumin infusion and Chinese herbal decoctions, the patient's hypoproteinemia worsened, and edema developed.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination following a repeat gastroscopy confirmed a diagnosis of eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EG) complicated with PLE.
- Aggressive treatment with higher albumin doses and modified herbal decoctions led to improved serum albumin levels and gradual resolution of edema.
Implications:
- Eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EG) can present atypically and complicate the diagnosis and management of protein losing enteropathy (PLE).
- While Chinese herbal decoctions may play a role in managing PLE, the complexity of EG-associated PLE necessitates further research into optimal treatment strategies.
- This case underscores the importance of thorough histopathological examination for accurate diagnosis in complex PLE cases.
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