Protein-Losing Enteropathy in the Setting of Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Gastroenterology
• Hematology

Background:

• Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) is rarely associated with severe iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and excessive cow milk intake.
• This condition often presents with edema in toddlers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a series of toddlers with PLE, IDA, and edema linked to high cow milk consumption.
• To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic considerations for this uncommonly recognized phenomenon.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 7 toddlers evaluated between November 2016 and January 2019.
• Laboratory studies confirmed IDA, hypoalbuminemia, and PLE.
• Treatment involved cow milk restriction and oral iron supplementation.

Main Results:

• All 7 toddlers presented with edema, IDA, and hypoalbuminemia.
• Following cow milk restriction and iron supplementation, all patients showed resolution of edema and improvement in IDA.
• Individual diagnostic evaluations and treatments varied.

Conclusions:

• Cow milk-induced PLE and IDA should be considered in toddlers presenting with anasarca (generalized edema).
• Dietary modification (cow milk restriction) and iron supplementation are effective treatments.