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Eosinophilic gastroenteritis involving the entire digestive tract
M Matsushita1, K Hajiro, Y Morita
1Department of Gastroenterology, Tenri Hospital, Nara, Japan.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Eosinophilic gastroenteritis can affect the entire digestive tract, not just the stomach and small intestine. Early diagnosis via endoscopic biopsies is crucial for effective prednisone treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is an inflammatory condition characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Its etiology remains largely unknown, with typical involvement limited to the stomach and small intestine.
Observation:
- A case of eosinophilic gastroenteritis involving the entire digestive tract from esophagus to colon is presented.
- A 24-year-old woman presented with diarrhea and marked peripheral eosinophilia, with negative stool studies for infections.
Findings:
- Endoscopic and barium studies revealed thickened, edematous folds in the duodenum and small intestine.
- Biopsies confirmed eosinophilic infiltration throughout the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, ileum, and colon.
- Prednisone therapy led to rapid symptom resolution and normalization of peripheral eosinophilia.
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of eosinophilic gastroenteritis to the entire gastrointestinal tract.
- Endoscopic biopsies are vital for accurate diagnosis, and evaluation of the entire digestive tract is recommended for patients with eosinophilia.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can effectively manage this extensive form of eosinophilic gastroenteritis.