Collagenous Gastritis: A Cause of Pediatric Iron Deficiency Anemia
Conner Blackmore1,2, Margaret Leach1,2
1South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
Insights
Collagenous gastritis (CG), a rare condition, can cause severe iron deficiency anemia in children. This case highlights the need for long-term monitoring and symptom management due to the lack of targeted treatments.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatrics
- Histopathology
Background:
- Collagenous gastritis (CG) is a rare condition characterized by subepithelial collagen deposition in the gastric mucosa.
- Fewer than 100 cases are documented, with highly variable clinical presentations.
- CG is exceptionally rare in pediatric populations.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old girl presented with severe iron deficiency anemia symptoms, including shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pain, and lethargy.
- Her symptoms persisted for six months.
- The patient was diagnosed with isolated collagenous gastritis.
Findings:
- This case underscores the variability of collagenous gastritis presentation, particularly in children.
- Severe iron deficiency anemia can be an isolated manifestation of CG in pediatric patients.
- The diagnosis required thorough histopathological examination of gastric biopsies.
Implications:
- Collagenous gastritis in children necessitates long-term follow-up and monitoring.
- Currently, no targeted treatments exist for CG, emphasizing symptom control and iron study monitoring.
- Early recognition and management are crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Abstract:
Collagenous gastritis (CG) is a rare histopathological condition characterized by subepithelial collagen deposition and inflammatory infiltrates in the gastric mucosa. With less than 100 cases reported in current literature, clinical presentation is highly variable. We report a case of isolated CG in an 11-year-old girl who presented with a 6-month history of symptomatic severe iron deficiency anemia (nonexertional shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pain, and lethargy). CG is a rare condition in children require long-term follow-up and monitoring of their disease; and because of its rarity, a targeted treatment does not exist. The current therapeutic strategy is focused on symptom control and monitoring iron studies, in conjunction with regular follow-up.
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