EOSINOPHILIC GASTROENTERITIS PRESENTING WITH ASCITES; CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Abstract

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EGE) is an uncommon disorder affecting both children and adults, that is characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the stomach and intestine with or without peripheral blood eosinophilia, in the absence of other known causes of eosinophilia. Presentation may vary depending on the location as well as on the depth and extent of involvement and usually runs a chronic relapsing course. Eosinophilic ascites (EA) is probably the most unusual and rare presentation of EGE. Almost all reported cases of EA are idiopathic. One case of EGE presenting with EA, that was successfully diagnosed and treated, is reported here. The subsequent review describes the main features and management of EGE and EA.
Keywords: eosinophilia, gastroenteritis, ascites.