A Case of Cronkhite-Canada Syndrome

Abstract

The patient was a 59-year-old man. He visited a neighborhood clinic because of diarrhea. He had alopecia at the top of his head and swelling of finger tips around that time. As barium enema examination revealed multiple polyps in the entire colon, he visited our hospital. Endoscopic examination disclosed numerous red polyps of irregular size, and histologic examination revealed cyst-like dilation of the ducts, interstitial edema, and cellular infiltration which were consistent with hamartomatous polyps. Endoscopic examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract similarly disclosed multiple polyps. Nail exfoliation and pigmentation were also observed. The patient was diagnosed as having Cronkhite-Canada syndrome and was started on corticosteroid therapy. The subsequent course was uneventful and favorable.