Idiopathic Intestinal Lymphangiectasia

ABSTRACT

This is a case report of idiopathic intestinal lymphangiectasia occurring in a 3-year-old boy. Idiopathic intestinal lymphangiectasia is believed to be a part of the generalized congenital disorder of lymphatic system. The present case revealed markedly ectatic lymphatics in the lamina propria of duodenal villi with lymphorrhagia. Clinical features were typical of the protein-losing enteropathy; hypoalbuminemia, hypocalcemia, chylous ascites, edema of the lower extremities and mild lymphocytopenia. This case indicates that serious protein loss may ensue, even in cases of intestinal lymphangiectasia without abnormalities of extraintestinal lymphatics.