Protein-losing gastroenteropathy

Abstract

Protein - losing gastroenteropathy (PLGE) is a condition characterized by excessive loss of serum proteins into the gastrointestinal tract that results in symptomatic hypoproteinemia. It can be due to a variety of diseases, intestinal or extraintestinal. Clinically, patients present with edema, ascites, and pericardial or pleural effusions. To make the diagnosis, excess fecal protein loss must be documented by measuring a - 1 - antitrypsin clearance or using nuclear scintigraphy. Further evaluation is then directed at establishing the underlying cause. Treatment goals include aggressive protein supplementation to improve nutritional status and stopping protein loss by treating the underlying disease when possible.