Collagenous Enteritis – An Alternative Cause of Malabsorptive Enteropathy

Abstract

IntroductionCollagenous Enteritis (CE) is a less common cause of enteropathy presenting with malabsorption as its cardinal symptom. While historically considered a resistant form of celiac disease, newer evidence supports the interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental triggers as the pathophysiologic basis of CE.Case PresentationHerein we present the case of a 40-year-old woman with two-year history of diarrhea and 32 kg weight loss who was incorrectly diagnosed with celiac disease with refractory symptoms despite adherence to a gluten-free diet. Extensive infectious, inflammatory, secretory, autoimmune workup did not reveal an underlying etiology. Endoscopic evidence of severe villous blunting and biopsy with characteristic patchy enlarged subepithelial collagen layer solidified a diagnosis of CE. Treatment with steroids resulted in resolution of malabsorptive symptoms and gradual weight gain.ConclusionThis case highlights the importance of considering CE in patients presenting with malabsorption especially given significant clinical overlap with other malasbsorptive conditions as well as its therapeutic implications.