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Eosinophilic gastroenteritis presenting with acute pancreatitis
A Maeshima1, H Murakami, H Sadakata
1Third Department of Internal Medicine, Gunma University School of Medicine, Japan.
Journal of Medicine
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Eosinophilic gastro-enterocolitis can cause acute pancreatitis due to duodenal swelling. Interleukin-5 (IL-5) levels indicate relapse risk, even after treatment with prednisolone.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Eosinophilic gastro-enterocolitis is a rare condition characterized by eosinophil infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Acute pancreatitis can be a complication of eosinophilic gastro-enterocolitis, potentially due to pancreatic duct obstruction.
Observation:
- A 27-year-old male presented with eosinophilic gastro-enterocolitis and acute pancreatitis.
- The patient exhibited marked swelling of the duodenal papillary region due to eosinophil infiltration.
Findings:
- Prednisolone treatment led to rapid clinical improvement, decreased serum amylase, and recovery of peripheral eosinophilia.
- Serum interleukin-5 (IL-5) levels were elevated at diagnosis and decreased with prednisolone therapy.
- Detectable IL-5 levels persisted during clinical remission, suggesting ongoing immune activity.
Implications:
- Eosinophilia in this context is mediated by IL-5.
- Persistent detectable IL-5 levels indicate a potential for relapse, even during remission.
- Monitoring IL-5 may be crucial for managing patients with eosinophilic gastro-enterocolitis and pancreatitis.