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Spondyloarthritis Associated With Collagenous Colitis-Case Report and Literature Review
Charlotte Bouvy1, Abeline Kapuczinski1,2, Sophiane Ibrahimi3
1Rheumatology Department CHU Helora Site Kennedy Mons Belgium.
Collagenous colitis (CC), a cause of chronic diarrhea, is rarely associated with spondyloarthropathy (SpA). This case highlights the diagnostic challenges and potential link between these conditions, emphasizing multidisciplinary care.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Rheumatology
- Investigating the intersection of inflammatory bowel diseases and autoimmune conditions.
Background:
- Collagenous colitis (CC) presents with chronic watery diarrhea, often overlooked due to normal endoscopic findings.
- While frequently associated with autoimmune diseases, the link between CC and spondyloarthropathy (SpA) is seldom documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of collagenous colitis co-occurring with spondyloarthropathy.
- To underscore the diagnostic complexities and potential shared pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- A case study of a 33-year-old male with chronic diarrhea and arthralgia.
- Diagnostic procedures included colonoscopy with biopsies, and imaging studies (revealing sternal erosions and joint effusions).
Main Results:
- Initial misdiagnosis as irritable bowel syndrome and fibromyalgia.
- Confirmation of collagenous colitis and spondyloarthropathy after persistent symptoms and further investigation.
- Partial symptom improvement with budesonide, mesalazine, and methotrexate.
Conclusions:
- The co-occurrence of collagenous colitis and spondyloarthropathy is rare but clinically significant.
- Shared immune pathways may underlie the pathogenesis of both conditions.
- Multidisciplinary management is crucial for patients with overlapping gastrointestinal and rheumatological conditions.
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