Gastric sarcoidosis in children: a case report and review of the literature

ABSTRACT

Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown etiology that is characterized by the formation of noncaseating granulomas. Gastrointestinal [GI] tract involvement in sarcoidosis is rare. Gastric sarcoidosis, particularly involving the antrum, affects approximately 10% of patients with systemic disease. GI sarcoidosis commonly occurs subclinically, with clinical manifestations present in only 0.1-0.9% of patients with the disease. This is a rare case report of a 8 year Saudi girl with symptomatic gastric sarcoidosis. The patient presented with anorexia, postprandial upper abdominal pain and fullness, and weight loss of 3 months duration. She was presented acutely after 6 months with attack of hematemesis. Endoscopic examination of upper gastrointestinal tract revealed bleeding nodular mucosal irregularities. Mucosal biopsies revealed noncaseating granulomatous inflammation involving the gastric mucosa confirming the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Corticosteroid therapy was started and the symptoms abated almost immediately. We also offer a review of the literature