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Schiepatti A, Sanders DS, Baiardi P, Caio G, Ciacci C, Kaukinen K, Lebwohl B, Leffler D, Malamut G, Murray JA, Rostami K, Rubio-Tapia A, Volta U, Biagi F. Nomenclature and diagnosis of seronegative coeliac disease and chronic non-coeliac enteropathies in adults: the Paris consensus. Gut 2022; 71:2218-2225. [PMID: 35676085 PMCID: PMC9554081 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2021-326645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Differential diagnosis of villous atrophy (VA) without coeliac antibodies in adults includes seronegative coeliac disease (CD) and chronic enteropathies unrelated to gluten, ie. non-coeliac enteropathies (NCEs). There is currently no international consensus on the nomenclature and diagnostic criteria for these enteropathies. In this work, a Delphi process was conducted to address this diagnostic and clinical uncertainty. DESIGN An international task force of 13 gastroenterologists from six countries was recruited at the 16th International Coeliac Disease Symposium, Paris, 2019. Between September 2019 and July 2021, a Delphi process was conducted through mail surveys to reach a consensus on which conditions to consider in the differential diagnosis of VA with negative coeliac serology and the clinical diagnostic approaches required for these conditions. A 70% agreement threshold was adopted. RESULTS Chronic enteropathies characterised by VA and negative coeliac serology can be attributed to two main clinical scenarios: forms of CD presenting with negative serology, which also include seronegative CD and CD associated with IgA deficiency, and NCEs, with the latter recognising different underlying aetiologies. A consensus was reached on the diagnostic criteria for NCEs assisting clinicians in differentiating NCEs from seronegative CD. Although in adults seronegative CD is the most common aetiology in patients with VA and negative serology, discriminating between seronegative CD and NCEs is key to avoid unnecessary lifelong gluten-free diet, treat disease-specific morbidity and contrast poor long-term outcomes. CONCLUSION This paper describes the Paris consensus on the definitions and diagnostic criteria for seronegative CD and chronic NCEs in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Schiepatti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Terapia Medica, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy .,Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Gastroenterology Unit of Pavia Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - David S Sanders
- Academic Unit of Gastroenterology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Paola Baiardi
- Direzione Scientifica Centrale, Fondazione S. Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giacomo Caio
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy,Celiac Center and Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center Massachusetts General Hospital- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carolina Ciacci
- AOU San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Katri Kaukinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University and Department of Internal Medicine, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Benjamin Lebwohl
- Celiac Disease Center, Department of Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York City, New York, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daniel Leffler
- The Celiac Center at BIDMC, Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Georgia Malamut
- Université de Paris, Department of Gastroenterology, AP-HP, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Joseph A Murray
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kamran Rostami
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Mid Central DHB, Palmerston Hospital, Palmerston North, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Alberto Rubio-Tapia
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Umberto Volta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Biagi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Terapia Medica, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy,Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Gastroenterology Unit of Pavia Institute, Pavia, Italy
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2
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Liu C, Yang J. Enteric Glial Cells in Immunological Disorders of the Gut. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:895871. [PMID: 35573829 PMCID: PMC9095930 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.895871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Enteric glial cells (EGCs) are one of the major cell types of neural crest lineage distributed in the gastrointestinal tract. EGCs represent an integral part of the enteric nervous system (ENS) and significantly outnumber ENS neurons. Studies have suggested that EGCs would exert essential roles in supporting the survival and functions of the ENS neurons. Notably, recent evidence has begun to reveal that EGCs could possess multiple immune functions and thereby may participate in the immune homeostasis of the gut. In this review article, we will summarize the current evidence supporting the potential involvement of EGCs in several important immunological disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and autoimmune enteropathy. Further, we highlight critical questions on the immunological aspects of EGCs that warrant future research attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Yang
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3
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Adult autoimmune enteropathy in autoimmune hepatitis patient. Case report and literature review. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2021; 45:101673. [PMID: 33744411 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2021.101673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune enteropathy (AIE) is a rare disease characterized by prolonged diarrhea, vomiting and weight loss; although it is mainly a rare pediatric disease, over the years a number of adults have also been found to be affected. In this study, we present a case report of a 73-year-old woman with a history of autoimmune hepatitis, antinuclear (ANA) and positive anti-enterocyte antibodies (AEA), who has suffered two months of intractable diarrhea, nausea, anorexia and severe weight loss. The histological examination of the endoscopic duodenal mucosa biopsies revealed severe shortening and flattening of the villi, resulting in mucosal atrophy. The immunohistochemical study revealed a polymorphic lymphoid population, exhibiting a B cell (CD20+) phenotype in follicles and a T cell phenotype (CD3+) in the diffuse component within the lamina propria. Our patient had a complete recovery after two weeks of taking prednisone and following a gluten-rich diet. To our knowledge this is the first case of autoimmune enteropathy in adults with ANA and AEA 7 years after a diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis. To date, the patient is still in clinical remission on a low dose of orally administered predinisone without any additional immunosuppression.
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Acute Flare of Adult-Onset Autoimmune Enteropathy Associated With Cyclophosphamide. ACG Case Rep J 2021; 8:e00541. [PMID: 33634202 PMCID: PMC7901791 DOI: 10.14309/crj.0000000000000541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This is a case of adult-onset autoimmune enteropathy (AIE) in a 46-year-old man with multiple autoimmune conditions who presented with worsening disease process after receiving cyclophosphamide. We describe the investigations and management of this patient over a 6-year timeline. The diagnosis and management of AIE is challenging given the heterogeneity in clinicopathologic findings and a small number of adult case reports. We describe the current diagnostic criteria, review the literature on treatment options and outcomes, and discuss the evidence for cyclophosphamide in the treatment of AIE. Adult-onset AIE should be considered in the differential diagnosis of refractory diarrhea and weight loss.
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5
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Volta U, Caio G, Ghirardi C, Lungaro L, Mansueto P, Carroccio A, De Giorgio R. Minimal Lesions of the Small Intestinal Mucosa: More than Morphology. Dig Dis Sci 2020; 65:2761-2768. [PMID: 32875530 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-020-06571-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Minimal lesions of the small bowel are mucosal changes characterized by an increased number of intraepithelial lymphocytes (with or without crypt hyperplasia) and normal villous architecture. Such changes are associated with a wide spectrum of conditions, ranging from food intolerances to infections, and from drugs to immune diseases, with different clinical profiles and manifestations, which complicates the formulation of a differential diagnosis. Patient history, symptom evaluation, and histopathology are the diagnostic features needed to establish a correct diagnosis. Physicians should assist pathologists in formulating a precise morphological evaluation by taking well-oriented small intestinal biopsies and collecting informative clinical findings that inform histopathology. In this current clinical controversy, the authors provide the reader with an appraisal of the small intestine minimal lesions through a careful analysis of the major conditions (e.g., celiac disease and other non-celiac disorders) responsible for such changes and their differential diagnosis. Also, we acknowledge that some of the diseases detailed in this article may progress from an early minimal lesion to overt mucosal atrophy. Thus, the timing of the diagnosis is of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umberto Volta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giacomo Caio
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, St. Anna University Hospital, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Celiac Center and Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Caterina Ghirardi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, St. Anna University Hospital, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lisa Lungaro
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, St. Anna University Hospital, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pasquale Mansueto
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Carroccio
- Unit of Internal Medicine, "V. Cervello" Hospital, Ospedali Riuniti "Villa Sofia-Cervello", Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto De Giorgio
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, St. Anna University Hospital, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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Villanacci V, Lougaris V, Ravelli A, Buscarini E, Salviato T, Lionetti P, Salemme M, Martelossi S, De Giacomo C, Falchetti D, Pelizzo G, Bassotti G. Clinical manifestations and gastrointestinal pathology in 40 patients with autoimmune enteropathy. Clin Immunol 2019; 207:10-17. [PMID: 31279857 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2019.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune enteropathy (AIE) is a rare condition that may affect pediatric and adult patients, frequently associated with primary immunodeficiencies. We performed a retrospective study on clinical and histological findings from 40 AIE patients. Histological presentation showed a prevalent celiac disease pattern (50%), followed by the mixed pattern (35%), independently of age, chronic active duodenitis (10%), and GVHD-like pattern (5%). Patients with primary immunodeficiencies (24/40) presented mainly with the celiac disease pattern (72.2% versus 22.2%; p < .0001), while patients without primary immunodeficiencies presented with a mixed histological pattern (61.1% versus 13.6%; p < .0001). Our study shows that the prevalent histological presentation is the celiac disease-like pattern, independently of age, and, for the first time, that the histological presentation of AIE differs significantly between patients with and without primary immunodeficiencies. These findings may be helpful for more precise and timely diagnosis and management of this rare disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vassilios Lougaris
- Pediatrics Clinic and Institute for Molecular Medicine A. Nocivelli, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia and ASST-Spedali Civili of Brescia, Italy.
| | - Alberto Ravelli
- Gastroenterology and GI Endoscopy Unit, University Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Buscarini
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Department, Maggiore Hospital, ASST Crema, Crema, Italy
| | - Tiziana Salviato
- Pathology Institute, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Ospedali Riuniti di Trieste, Italy
| | | | | | - Stefano Martelossi
- Marenal and Infantile Department of Pediatrics, Ospedale Ca' Foncello, Treviso, Italy
| | - Costantino De Giacomo
- Maternal and Infantile Department of Pediatrics ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda Milano, Italy
| | - Diego Falchetti
- Pediatric Surgery, Maternal and Infantile Department ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda Milano, Italy
| | - Gloria Pelizzo
- Pediatric Surgery Department, Children's Hospital G. Di Cristina, ARNAS Civico-Di Cristina-Benfratelli, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gabrio Bassotti
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia Medical School, Perugia, Italy
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7
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Yang YQ, Wu YF, Xu FF, Deng JB, Wu LL, Han XD, Liang J, Guo DA, Liu B. Tripterygium glycoside fraction n2: Alleviation of DSS-induced colitis by modulating immune homeostasis in mice. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 58:152855. [PMID: 30851581 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.152855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2018] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Tripterygium glycosides (TG) is the main active extractive of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F and is widely used in clinical practice to treat inflammatory diseases (including inflammatory bowel disease). However, due to its severe toxicity, TG is restricted to the treatment of many diseases. Therefore, it is necessary to study a new method to obtain the attenuated and synergistic extracts from TG. PURPOSE Tripterygium glycosides-n2 (TG-n2) was obtained from TG by a new preparation method. In this study, we aimed to investigate the difference in the chemical compositions between TG and TG-n2, further explored its toxicity and therapeutic effects on DSS-induced colitis in mice. METHODS The major chemical compositions of TG and TG-n2 were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). Subsequently, acute toxicity test was applied to evaluate the toxicity difference between TG and TG-n2. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis model was used to explore the therapeutic effect of TG and TG-n2 and their potential mechanisms of action. RESULTS We found that the chemical compositions of TG-n2 is different from TG. The main difference is the ratio of triptriolide (T11) / triptolide (T9). Acute toxicity test proved that TG-n2 was less toxic than TG. Base on this, further studies showed that TG-n2 has a similar therapeutic effect as compared to TG on attenuating the symptoms of colitis, such as diarrhea, bloody stools, body weight loss, colonic atrophy, histopathological changes, inhibiting cytokines secretion and reducing absolute lymph number. In addition, TG and TG-n2 can increase the apoptosis of T lymphocyte in vivo. Further investigated showed that TG and TG-n2 could increase the expressions of Bax and p62 on CD3-positive T cells. CONCLUSION This study showed that oral administration of TG-n2 is safer than TG. Moreover, the attenuated TG-n2 has the similar therapeutic effect on treating experimental colitis in mice when compared to TG. Its mechanism may be related to activating the expression of Bax in T cells and inducing T cells autophagy to regulate the survival of T lymphocytes in colitis mice, thus reducing inflammation in colon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Q Yang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Y F Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Development and Research of Chinese Medicine, and Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - F F Xu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - J B Deng
- The Second Clinical Medical College, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - L L Wu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - X D Han
- The Second Clinical Medical College, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - J Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Development and Research of Chinese Medicine, and Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
| | - D A Guo
- The Second Clinical Medical College, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai 201203, PR China.
| | - B Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
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Abstract
Differential diagnosis and management of enteropathies found in the context of seronegative villous atrophy (VA) are still a clinical challenge. Although seronegative coeliac disease may be the most frequent cause of serology-negative VA, other conditions must be taken into account in the differential diagnosis of seronegative VA. The rarity of these enteropathies with frequent overlapping of histological features may result in misclassification of such patients as affected by a seronegative or a refractory form of coeliac disease with consequent inappropriate treatments and long-term morbidity. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge and to provide an evidence base and practical algorithmic approach for the investigation and management of seronegative VA.
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Abstract
Autoimmune enteropathy is a rare but severe disorder with significant immune-mediated changes. We present a 54-year-old woman with history of refractory ulcerative colitis status post total colectomy with end ileostomy who presented 1 month after her surgery with high ostomy output of 4 L/d. After a negative workup, ileoscopy with biopsies showed severe chronic active ileitis. Enteroscopy revealed diffuse chronic enteritis concerning for autoimmune enteropathy. She was started on budesonide and intravenous solumedrol, but her ostomy output remained high. She was then started on cyclosporine and later tacrolimus with significant clinical improvement and normalization of ostomy output on tacrolimus.
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10
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Relea L, Calvo M, Pons F, Salas C, Abreu L. Adult Autoinmune Enteropathy and Colitis: A Challenge Successfully Treated With Adalimumab. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2018; 24:e11. [PMID: 29668961 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izy105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Relea
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Puerta de Hierro University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Calvo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Puerta de Hierro University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Pons
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Puerta de Hierro University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Salas
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Puerta de Hierro University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Abreu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Puerta de Hierro University Hospital, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Anatomical Pathology, Puerta de Hierro University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
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Diffuse Autoimmune Enteropathy and Colopathy in an Adult Patient Successfully Treated With Adalimumab and a Review of the Literature. Am J Ther 2017; 23:e963-8. [PMID: 25379737 DOI: 10.1097/mjt.0000000000000119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune enteropathy (AIE) is a rare disease that causes intractable diarrhea not responsive to a gluten free diet and must be distinguished from refractory sprue. It is associated with circulating autoantibodies against goblet cells and enterocytes. AIE mainly involves the small intestines, with very few cases reported in adults. Because of the paucity of cases, the epidemiology of the disease remains unclear, and treatment is based on the cases found in the literature. Of the 35 adult cases reported, only 4 involved the colon. Because of the low number of cases, there have been no clear recommendations on treatment modalities with most reports heavily emphasizing steroids as the mainstay of treatment. We present the case of adult female patient who developed postpartum AIE and colopathy with profuse diarrhea successfully treated with adalimumab and a review of the literature. To the best of our knowledge, this case is only the fourth case of a tumor necrosis factor alpha antagonist being used in the treatment of AIE and the first case of adalimumab being used.
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12
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Abstract
Autoimmune enteropathy (AIE) is rare but damaging. The lack of consistent objective findings makes diagnosis a challenge. A 45-year-old male developed noninfectious diarrhea with significant weight loss and electrolyte abnormalities. Computed tomography delineated enteritis. Colonoscopy and esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed villous atrophy, chronic inflammation, and ulceration of the terminal ileum and cecum. Pathology showed cryptitis with apoptosis and abscesses throughout the small and large bowel and absent goblet cells. Steroids rapidly improved symptoms. Anti-enterocyte antibody serologies were negative. Management can be challenging, and, in this case, the patient initially improved with budesonide and infliximab but required alternative anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy after relapsing. This is an unusual presentation of seronegative AIE, which should be considered in cases of persistent severe diarrhea.
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13
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Abstract
Autoimmune enteropathy (AIE) is a very rare clinical entity primarily reported in infancy. In recent years, adult involvement has also been documented. Intractable diarrhea is the main manifestation, which is associated with small bowel villous atrophy. Corticosteroids are considered the first-choice therapy for AIE. In some patients, immunosuppressive therapies are necessary.
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Gram-Kampmann EM, Lillevang ST, Detlefsen S, Laursen SB. Wireless capsule endoscopy as a tool in diagnosing autoimmune enteropathy. BMJ Case Rep 2015; 2015:bcr-2014-207931. [PMID: 26150615 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2014-207931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune enteropathy (AE) is an immune mediated illness of the intestinal mucosa. The cause is unknown, and the diagnosis is based on typical characteristics displayed. There is no gold standard for treatment. We present two adult cases of AE and demonstrate the challenges in establishing the diagnosis. The extensive diagnostic work up excluded other more common causes of protracted diarrhoea. Wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) displayed universal small intestinal mucosal damage with shortened villi that led to the suspicion of AE in both patients. The diagnosis was confirmed with microscopy, showing shortened villi, villous blunting and hyperplasia of crypts in both patients. In one patient, deep crypt lymphocytosis with minimal intraepithelial lymphocytosis was found as well. Both patients were successfully treated with high-dose immunosuppressant therapy to induce and maintain remission. Use of WCE as a diagnostic tool was invaluable in establishing the diagnosis of AE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Marie Gram-Kampmann
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Søren T Lillevang
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Sönke Detlefsen
- Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Stig Borbjerg Laursen
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
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15
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Jiao L, Gan-Schreier H, Tuma-Kellner S, Stremmel W, Chamulitrat W. Sensitization to autoimmune hepatitis in group VIA calcium-independent phospholipase A2-null mice led to duodenal villous atrophy with apoptosis, goblet cell hyperplasia and leaked bile acids. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2015; 1852:1646-57. [PMID: 25957555 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2015.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chronic bowel disease can co-exist with severe autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in an absence of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Genetic background may contribute to this overlap syndrome. We previously have shown that the deficiency of iPLA2β causes an accumulation of hepatocyte apoptosis, and renders susceptibility for acute liver injury. We here tested whether AIH induction in iPLA2β-null mice could result in intestinal injury, and whether bile acid metabolism was altered. Control wild-type (WT) and female iPLA2β-null (iPLA2β(-/-)) mice were intravenously injected with 10mg/kg concanavalinA (ConA) or saline for 24h. ConA treatment of iPLA2β(-/-) mice caused massive liver injury with increased liver enzymes, fibrosis, and necrosis. While not affecting WT mice, ConA treatment of iPLA2β(-/-) mice caused severe duodenal villous atrophy concomitant with increased apoptosis, cell proliferation, globlet cell hyperplasia, and endotoxin leakage into portal vein indicating a disruption of intestinal barrier. With the greater extent than in WT mice, ConA treatment of iPLA2β(-/-) mice increased jejunal expression of innate response cytokines CD14, TNF-α, IL-6, and SOCS3 as well as chemokines CCL2 and the CCL3 receptor CCR5. iPLA2β deficiency in response to ConA-induced AIH caused a significant decrease in hepatic and biliary bile acids, and this was associated with suppression of hepatic Cyp7A1, Ntcp and ABCB11/Bsep and upregulation of intestinal FXR/FGF15 mRNA expression. The suppression of hepatic Ntcp expression together with the loss of intestinal barrier could account for the observed bile acid leakage into peripheral blood. Thus, enteropathy may result from acute AIH in a susceptible host such as iPLA2β deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Jiao
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University of Heidelberg Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongying Gan-Schreier
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University of Heidelberg Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sabine Tuma-Kellner
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University of Heidelberg Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Stremmel
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University of Heidelberg Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Walee Chamulitrat
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University of Heidelberg Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
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16
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Gastrointestinal biopsy findings of autoimmune enteropathy: a review of 25 cases. Am J Surg Pathol 2014; 38:1319-29. [PMID: 25188868 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000000317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune enteropathy (AIE) is a rare disorder characterized by severe diarrhea and small intestinal mucosal atrophy resulting from immune-mediated injury. It remains a challenging diagnosis because of its clinicopathologic variability. To better understand its histopathologic features, we describe the gastrointestinal biopsy findings of 25 patients, including children and adults. The most common finding on small intestinal biopsy (13/25 cases, 52%) was villous blunting, expansion of the lamina propria by mixed but predominantly mononuclear inflammation, and neutrophilic cryptitis with or without crypt microabscesses. In 5 cases (20%), the duodenum exhibited changes indistinguishable from celiac disease, with villous blunting and intraepithelial lymphocytosis. Increased crypt apoptosis with minimal inflammation, resembling acute graft-versus-host disease, was observed in 4 cases (16%). The remaining 3 cases (12%) exhibited a mixture of 2 or more of the above patterns. Mucosal abnormalities outside the small intestine were present in all 24 cases with available biopsies (100%), with the stomach most commonly affected (19/22 cases, 86%), followed by the colon (14/22, 64%) and esophagus (5/18, 28%). Findings in non-small intestinal sites were variable and included mixed active and chronic inflammation, chronic inflammation alone, intraepithelial lymphocytosis, and increased apoptosis resembling acute graft-versus-host disease. In summary, AIE most commonly presents as an active enteritis with villous blunting and expansion of the lamina propria by mixed inflammation. Mucosal abnormalities are frequently seen elsewhere in the gut. AIE may thus be better regarded as a pan-gastrointestinal autoimmune disorder, and biopsies from sites other than the small intestine may greatly facilitate its diagnosis.
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Feakins RM. Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease? Pitfalls and problems. Histopathology 2013; 64:317-35. [PMID: 24266813 DOI: 10.1111/his.12263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The interpretation of colorectal biopsies taken for the initial diagnosis of chronic idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is challenging. Subclassification of IBD as ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn's disease, which may be particularly difficult, is the subject of this review. Biopsies taken at first presentation are emphasised, partly because their features have not been modified by time or treatment. Aspects of longstanding disease and of resections are also mentioned. The first part of the review comprises background considerations and a summary of histological features that are discriminant, according to published evidence, between UC and Crohn's disease in initial biopsies. Pitfalls and problems associated with making the distinction between UC and Crohn's disease are then discussed. These include: mimics of IBD; inadequate clinical details; unreliable microscopic features; absence of histological changes in early IBD; discontinuity in UC; cryptolytic granulomas; differences between paediatric and adult UC; reliance on ileal and oesophagogastroduodenal histology; and atypical features in IBD resections. Avoidance by pathologists of known pitfalls should increase the likelihood of accurate and confident subclassification of IBD, which is important for optimum medical and surgical management.
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Feakins RM. Inflammatory bowel disease biopsies: updated British Society of Gastroenterology reporting guidelines. J Clin Pathol 2013; 66:1005-26. [PMID: 23999270 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2013-201885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Accurate histopathological assessment of biopsies is important for the diagnosis, subclassification, and management of chronic idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) guidelines for the initial histopathological diagnosis of IBD were published in 1997. Changes since then include: more widespread use of full colonoscopy; greater recognition of the effects of time and treatment; improved documentation of variations in anatomical distribution; better understanding of the mimics of IBD; significant progress in clinical management; and modifications of terminology. Accordingly, an update is required. These revised guidelines aim to optimise the quality and consistency of reporting of biopsies taken for the initial diagnosis of IBD by summarising the literature and making recommendations based on the available evidence. Advice from existing clinical guidelines is also taken into account. Among the subjects discussed are: distinguishing IBD from other colitides, particularly infective colitis; subclassification of IBD (as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or IBD unclassified); the discriminant value of granulomas; aspects of disease distribution, including discontinuity in ulcerative colitis; time-related changes; differences between paediatric and adult IBD; the role of ileal and upper gastrointestinal biopsies; differential diagnoses such as diverticular colitis and diversion proctocolitis; and dysplasia. The need to correlate the histological features with clinical and endoscopic findings is emphasised. An approach to the conclusion of an IBD biopsy report based on the acronym Pattern, Activity, Interpretation, Dysplasia (PAID) is suggested. The key recommendations are listed at the end of the document.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Russo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 324 South 34th Street, Main Building, Room 5NW16, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Lymphocytic colitis and collagenous colitis: a review of clinicopathologic features and immunologic abnormalities. Adv Anat Pathol 2012; 19:28-38. [PMID: 22156832 DOI: 10.1097/pap.0b013e31823d7705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Lymphocytic colitis (LC) and collagenous colitis (CC), 2 histologic forms of microscopic colitis, were recognized as rare disease entities 4 decades ago. An increasing body of evidence accumulated in the past 40 years reveals increasing incidence and prevalence rates, a wide spectrum of clinical presentations, and several histologic variants. Although several recent randomized clinical trials confirmed the efficacy of oral budesonide in treating LC and CC, disease relapse after a short-duration treatment is common. Despite their common clinical presentations and well-defined histologic diagnostic criteria, there are only few studies on the immunologic abnormalities in colonic tissue. The aim of this review is to (1) familiarize the pathologists in general practice with histomorphology of LC and CC, including the rare histologic variants and the clinical implication associated with these 2 diagnoses, (2) summarize the data from recent randomized clinical trials of oral budesonide, and (3) review immunological studies on colonic tissue. Overall, immunologic abnormalities of colonic tissue seem to explain for the histomorphologic features and the clinical symptomatology of LC and CC. Advances in the understanding of the underlying immunologic abnormalities in the colonic tissue may help develop novel and effective therapies for these 2 diseases.
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Bishu S, Arsenescu V, Lee EY, Vargas HD, de Villiers WJS, Arsenescu R. Autoimmune enteropathy with a CD8+ CD7- T-cell small bowel intraepithelial lymphocytosis: case report and literature review. BMC Gastroenterol 2011; 11:131. [PMID: 22126605 PMCID: PMC3287162 DOI: 10.1186/1471-230x-11-131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2011] [Accepted: 11/29/2011] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Adult onset autoimmune enteropathy (AIE) is a rare condition characterized by diarrhea refractory to dietary therapy diagnosed in patients with evidence of autoimmune conditions. Auto-antibodies to gut epithelial cells and other tissues are commonly demonstrated. Despite increasing awareness, the pathogenesis, histologic, immunologic and clinical features of AIE remain uncertain. There remains controversy regarding the diagnostic criteria, the frequency and types of auto-antibodies and associated autoimmune conditions, and the extent and types of histologic and immunologic abnormalities. CD4+ T-cells are thought to at least responsible for this condition; whether other cell types, including B- and other T-cell subsets are involved, are uncertain. We present a unique case of AIE associated with a CD8+CD7- lymphocytosis and review the literature to characterize the histologic and immunologic abnormalities, and the autoantibodies and autoimmune conditions associated with AIE. Case Presentation We present a case of immune mediated enteropathy distinguished by the CD8+CD7- intra-epithelial and lamina propria lymphocytosis. Twenty-nine cases of AIE have been reported. The majority of patients had auto-antibodies (typically anti-enterocyte), preferential small bowel involvement, and predominately CD3+ CD4+ infiltrates. Common therapies included steroids or immuno-suppressive agents and clinical response with associated with histologic improvement. Conclusions AIE is most often characterized (1) IgG subclass anti-epithelial cell antibodies, (2) preferential small bowel involvement, and (3) CD3+ alphabeta TCR+ infiltrates; there is insufficient evidence to conclude CD4+ T-cells are solely responsible in all cases of AIE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shrinivas Bishu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky Medical Center, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA.
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Montalto M, D'Onofrio F, Santoro L, Gallo A, Gasbarrini A, Gasbarrini G. Autoimmune enteropathy in children and adults. Scand J Gastroenterol 2010; 44:1029-36. [PMID: 19255930 DOI: 10.1080/00365520902783691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune enteropathy is a rare disorder characterized by severe and protracted diarrhea, weight loss from malabsorption and immune-mediated damage to the intestinal mucosa, generally occurring in infants and young children, although some cases of adult onset have been reported in the literature. Pathogenetic mechanisms involve immunological disorders, in which the presence of antienterocyte autoantibodies, although detected since first description, seems now to be secondary. As occurs frequently in autoimmunity, subjects with autoimmune enteropathy may be affected by other autoimmune disorders, sometimes leading to particular forms, i.e. the IPEX syndrome and the APECED syndrome. The prognosis of autoimmune enteropathy patients depends on the severity of digestive symptoms (including fecal output), on the severity and extension of histological lesions along the gastrointestinal apparatus, and on the presence of extra-intestinal involvement. Management of autoimmune enteropathy patients is based on nutritional support and adequate hydration to ensure optimal growth and development, together with immunosuppressive therapy. Recently, biological agents have been introduced, with apparent beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Montalto
- Institute of Internal Medicine, Catholic University, Rome, Italy.
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Lymphocytic disorders of the gastrointestinal tract: a review for the practicing pathologist. Adv Anat Pathol 2009; 16:290-306. [PMID: 19700939 DOI: 10.1097/pap.0b013e3181b5073a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Increased numbers of intraepithelial lymphocytes (lymphocytosis) can be found in the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and colon in a variety of clinical circumstances. This review, directed at practicing pathologists, portrays the normal resident lymphocyte population in the mucosa of each segment of the digestive tract and discusses the different situations that may result in quantitative or qualitative alterations of intraepithelial lymphocytes. Esophageal lymphocytosis has not been fully characterized and its clinical significance, if any, awaits definition. Thus, this diagnosis is presently discouraged. In the stomach, it is particularly important to exclude Helicobacter pylori infection and celiac sprue before diagnosing lymphocytic gastritis. Duodenal lymphocytic infiltrates, inextricably tied with alterations of the villous architecture of the mucosa, are often caused by gluten sensitivity. However, similar morphologic changes may be caused by a vast array of other conditions that must be carefully considered and excluded. Lymphocytic and collagenous colitis are most often unexplained, but their frequent association with autoimmune conditions or certain medications deserve a thorough investigation in each case. Using a combination of histologic and clinical clues, a cause for the intraepithelial lymphocytic infiltration can be identified in many instances. As some of the associated conditions are amenable to effective treatment, the importance of diligently seeking such associations before resorting to a diagnosis of primary lymphocytosis is emphasized.
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Abstract
Recent reports have suggested that autoimmune enteropathy involving the small bowel may occur in adults as well as in children. Apparently, the endoscopic and histological changes are similar to celiac disease before treatment, but these are not altered by any form of dietary restriction, including a gluten-free diet. As in celiac disease, histologic changes in gastric and colonic biopsies have also been recorded. Anti-enterocyte antibodies detected with immunofluorescent methods have been reported by a few laboratories, but these antibodies appear not to be specific and may simply represent epiphenomena. A widely available, reproducible and quantitative anti-enterocyte antibody assay is needed that could be applied in small bowel disorders that have the histological appearance of celiac disease, but fail to respond to a gluten-free diet.
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Akram S, Murray JA, Pardi DS, Alexander GL, Schaffner JA, Russo PA, Abraham SC. Adult autoimmune enteropathy: Mayo Clinic Rochester experience. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2007; 5:1282-90; quiz 1245. [PMID: 17683994 PMCID: PMC2128725 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2007.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Autoimmune enteropathy is a rare cause of intractable diarrhea associated with circulating gut autoantibodies and a predisposition to autoimmunity. It is rarely observed in adults, with only 11 cases reported to date. METHODS Fifteen adults with autoimmune enteropathy were identified at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, from May 2001-June 2006. The demographic, clinical, and treatment data were abstracted from their records. RESULTS The study population was 87% white, 47% female, with median age of 55 years (interquartile range, 42-67 years). All patients had protracted diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition. Celiac disease was excluded by lack of response to gluten-free diet or absence of the celiac disease susceptibility HLA genotypes. Fourteen patients were tested for gut epithelial cell antibodies, and 93% were positive for anti-enterocyte and/or anti-goblet cell antibodies. Predisposition to autoimmune diseases was noted in 80%, as indicated by a variety of circulating autoantibodies. Small intestinal histopathologic findings included subtotal villous atrophy and lymphoplasmacytic infiltration in the lamina propria with relatively few surface intraepithelial lymphocytes. T-cell receptor gene rearrangement studies were negative in all cases. Immunosuppressive therapy was required in 93% of cases. Clinical improvement was noted in 60% after 1-8 weeks of steroid therapy. CONCLUSIONS Autoimmune enteropathy is a heterogeneous disease and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of malabsorption and small bowel villous atrophy. The presence of gut epithelial cell antibodies can help confirm the diagnosis. No single agent is unequivocally effective in inducing remission, and immunosuppressive therapy is required in most cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Akram
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Joseph A. Murray
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Darrell S. Pardi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Glenn L. Alexander
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - John A. Schaffner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Pierre A. Russo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Susan C. Abraham
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Pathology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
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Abstract
The introduction of endoscopy of the upper digestive tract as a routine diagnostic procedure has increased the number of duodenal biopsy specimens. Consequently, the pathologist is often asked to evaluate them. In this review, a practical approach to the evaluation of a duodenal biopsy specimen is discussed. An overview of the handling of specimens is given and the normal histology and commonly encountered diseases are discussed. Finally, a description of commonly seen infections is provided, together with an algorithmic approach for diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Serra
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network and Toronto Medical Laboratories, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Carroccio A, Di Prima L, Iacono G, Florena AM, D'Arpa F, Sciumè C, Cefalù AB, Noto D, Averna MR. Multiple food hypersensitivity as a cause of refractory chronic constipation in adults. Scand J Gastroenterol 2006; 41:498-504. [PMID: 16635922 DOI: 10.1080/00365520500367400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Chronic constipation that is unresponsive to laxative treatment is a severe illness, but children unresponsive to laxatives have been successfully treated with an elimination diet. We report the first cases of refractory chronic constipation caused by food hypersensitivity in adults. Four patients with refractory constipation who were unresponsive to high doses of laxatives were put on an oligo-antigenic diet and underwent successive double-blind, placebo-controlled, food challenges (DBPFC). Routine laboratory tests, immunological assays, colonoscopy, esophago-gastroduodenoscopy and rectal and duodenal histology were performed. While on an elimination diet, bowel habits normalized in all patients and a DBPFC challenge triggered the reappearance of constipation. In comparison with another 13 patients with refractory constipation unresponsive to the elimination diet, observed over the same period, the patients with food-hypersensitivity-related constipation had the following characteristics: longer duration of illness (p < 0.03), lower body mass index (p < 0.03), higher frequency of self-reported food intolerance (p < 0.01), higher frequency of nocturnal abdominal pain and anal itching (p < 0.01). In patients with food hypersensitivity, hemoglobin concentrations and peripheral leukocytes were lower than those in controls (p < 0.03). The duodenal and rectal mucosa histology showed lymphocyte and eosinophil infiltration, and the duodenal villi were flattened in two cases. In adult patients, refractory chronic constipation may be caused by food hypersensitivity and an elimination diet is effective in these subjects.
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Al Khalidi H, Kandel G, Streutker CJ. Enteropathy with loss of enteroendocrine and Paneth cells in a patient with immune dysregulation: a case of adult autoimmune enteropathy. Hum Pathol 2006; 37:373-6. [PMID: 16613334 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2005.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune enteropathy (AIE) is a relatively rare condition found most frequently in children. It presents with persistent watery diarrhea and malabsorption and may require total parenteral nutrition for nutritional support. Rare cases have been reported in adults. On histology, the small intestinal villi are flattened but lack the intraepithelial lymphocytosis of celiac disease. In children and rarely in adults, some cases are linked to the IPEX syndrome (Immune dysregulation, Polyendocrinopathy, Enteropathy, X-linked inheritance). We report a 21-year-old man who presented with chronic persistent diarrhea for 4 years. The duodenal biopsies showed villous blunting, chronic inflammation, and decreased to absent goblet cells, Paneth cells, and endocrine cells by histology and electron microscopy. These changes are consistent with an AIE with involvement of non-enterocyte populations. Pathologists must be aware of the possibility of AIE in adults and consider it in the differential diagnosis of duodenitis, intraepithelial lymphocytosis, and small bowel villous flattening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisham Al Khalidi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Brocchi E, Tomassetti P, Volta U, Piscitelli L, Bonora M, Campana D, Corinaldesi R. Adult coeliac disease diagnosed by endoscopic biopsies in the duodenal bulb. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2005; 17:1413-5. [PMID: 16292098 DOI: 10.1097/00042737-200512000-00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Multiple endoscopic biopsies in the descending duodenum are usually recognized as the standardized method for the evaluation of mucosal changes in coeliac disease. Generally, the duodenal bulb is not considered a useful site for biopsies, due to some difficulties in histological evaluation. A case in which the diagnosis of coeliac disease was possible only with the aid of biopsies in the duodenal bulb is reported; noteworthy, this unusual site for biopsies was strongly suggested by the presence of a mosaic-like endoscopic appearance. Only few cases (mainly in childhood) have been reported in which diagnosis was made with the aid of biopsies in the duodenal bulb. This occurrence suggests that performing biopsies only in the descending duodenum may not be sufficient in some patients, and raises the question of whether obtaining specimens both from the first and the second part of the duodenum might be a more correct and complete approach to this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Brocchi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Cardio-Angiology and Hepatology, University of Bologna, Italy.
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Abstract
Recent studies on gluten sensitive enteropathy (GSE) have heightened the pathologist's awareness of intraepithelial lymphocytes in duodenal biopsies. Mild histologic forms of GSE are now recognized with increased IELs as the only histologic change. In this review, both the classic morphology and "minimal deviation" GSE are discussed in detail, with special emphasis on the differential diagnosis and how to avoid overdiagnosing this condition. The Marsh-Oberhuber classification is described and contrasted with a more practical diagnostic terminology that is recommended for use in pathology reports. Other important conditions associated with duodenal lymphocytosis, such as refractory sprue, autoimmune enteropathy, and Helicobacter pylori-associated duodenitis, are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie E Robert
- Program in Gastrointestinal Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8023, USA.
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León F, Olivencia P, Rodríguez-Pena R, Sánchez L, Redondo C, Alvarez I, Moreira V, Roy G. Clinical and immunological features of adult-onset generalized autoimmune gut disorder. Am J Gastroenterol 2004; 99:1563-71. [PMID: 15307878 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2004.40039.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Autoimmune enteropathy is a rare disorder of unknown pathogenesis, characterized by protracted diarrhea, villous atrophy, and enterocyte autoantibodies. Its association with extended inflammation of the whole gastrointestinal tract is termed as generalized autoimmune gut disorder (GAGD), generally a pediatric disease of difficult management due to its association with immunodeficiency. The aim of our work is to describe the mucosal immunological basis of an adult-onset case of GAGD. METHODS We studied an adult female with a severe inflammatory involvement of the gastrointestinal tract (stomach, small and large bowel, and liver) and antienterocyte autoantibodies. She had antibody deficiency and a predisposition to systemic autoimmunity. We analyzed, by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry, the phenotypic and functional characteristics of her intestinal intraepithelial and lamina propria (LP) lymphocytes. RESULTS We observed the prominent and constant presence of an unusual CD4+alphaE/beta7- Tc subset in the jejunal epithelium. Signs of the lymphocyte activation as well as the prominent lymphoid TNF-alpha production observed in the rectal mucosa support the involvement of a cell-mediated pro-inflammatory response in the pathogenesis of GAGD. CONCLUSIONS We report the second case of an adult fulfilling all diagnostic criteria for GAGD. We propose that the activated LP CD4+ T lymphocytes, as well as those atypically located in the epithelium, may play a pathogenic role. The alphaE/beta7- IEL could constitute a diagnostic marker of intestinal autoimmunity in the cases when autoantibodies are not evidenced, and mucosal TNF-alpha might represent a novel therapeutic target in this severe disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco León
- Departments of Immunology, Gastroenterology, and Pathology, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
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