Primary lymphangiectasia of the gastrointestinal tract

Abstract

Intestinal lymphangiectasia is a very rare pathology, characterized by the presence of enlarged lymphatic vessels in all layers of the intestinal wall and in the mesentery. As a result, "lymphatic lakes" are formed, through which lymph exudates into the lumen of the intestine. The main manifestation is hypoproteinemic edema. Diagnosis of the disease is based on laboratory-instrumental methods of investigation, including by determining in the stool α-1 antitrypsin as a screening test. Treatment includes: a diet rich in calcium, trace elements, be sure to use medicinal foods enriched with medium chain triglycerides, substitution and symptomatic therapy.

Keywords

• intestinal lymphangiectasia
• hypoproteinemic edema
• medium chain triglycerides
• clinical observation