Role of gastric ultrasound in pediatric Menetrier's disease: Report of two cases.

Abstract

Menetrier's disease (MD) is a protein-losing gastropathy characterized by acute generalized edema due to hypoalbuminemia. MD is rare in childhood, and it is commonly associated with cytomegalovirus infection. We reported two children, who presented with a history of generalized edema after some days of abdominal pain and diarrhea. Laboratory tests showed hypoalbuminemia with no proteinuria. Thoracic and abdominal ultrasound (US) revealed respectively pleural and pericardial effusion and ascites. A specific gastric echography showed gastric wall thickening (>3 mm) and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed prominent folds in the gastric body and fundus, with a subsequent histological confirmation of Menetrier diagnosis. They were discharged after several albumin infusions. A US follow-up confirmed the remission of the disease after 1 and 6 months. Gastric US revealed accurate in the diagnosis of this rare condition and in its follow-up. avoiding a second endoscopy in the short term.