Cronkhite-Canada Syndrome Presenting with life-threatening protein-losing enteropathy: a case report: a case report

Background: Cronkhite-Canada Syndrome (CCS) is a rare gastrointestinal (GI) polyposis syndrome. The diagnosis of CCS is made based on clinical, endoscopic, and histopathological findings. Common symptoms of CCS include chronic diarrhea, malnutrition, alopecia, skin hyperpigmentation, onychodystrophy, hypogeusia, and protein loss due to chronic inflammatory changes in the intestinal mucosa. Nutritional support, a high protein diet, antibiotics, correction of electrolyte imbalance, and corticosteroids are frequently used to treat CCS. Aim of the study: Herein, we present a newly diagnosed CCS patient who has suffered life-threatening protein loss. Material and methods: The patient’s complete medical history was analyzed to fomulate this report. Case report: A 62-year-old male patient presented with bloodless diarrhea, occurring 8-10 times per day for 4 months, and general malaise. On admission, arterial blood pressure was 80/50 mm/hg, pulse was 110 per minute and body temperature was 38.8°C. Laboratory tests highlighted a total protein of 38 mg/dL and albumin of 20 g/L. Upper and lower GI system (GIS) endoscopy revealed 2-20 mm polyps in the stomach, duodenum, and colon, and a small number in the distal esophagus. Pathological examination of polypectomy materials revealed edematous and inflamed lamina propria consisting of plasma cells, neutrophils, and eosinophils. The patient benefited from total parenteral nutrition, high protein dietary supplementation, and antibiotic therapy, and was followed with an upper and lower GIS endoscopy. Conclusions: CCS is a rare disease that can cause life-threatening hypoalbuminemia and requires close follow-up.