A Case of Eosinophilic Enteritis / 대한소화기내시경학회지

ABSTRACT

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is a rare disorder of the stomach, small intestine and colon, characterized by variable eosinophilic infiltration of the bowel wall and peripheral blood eosinophilia, abnormal gastrointestinal symptoms and signs. The pathogenesis of this disease still remains unknown, but several studies support allergic or immunologic etiology. Considerable variability in clinical presentation depends on the site of the gastrointestinal tract and the depth of bowel wall involvement. Herein we experienced a case of eosinophilic gastroenteritis confined to small intestine presenting progressive weight loss, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Enteroscopic findings showed diffuse multiple nodularity of mucosal folds in small bowel, especially duodenum and proximal jejunum. Jejunal and duodenal biopsy specimen demonstrated marked eosinophilic infiltration. These symptoms and signs were improved within 3 weeks after short course of prednisone therapy.