Oral administration of cromolyn in a patient with protein-losing enteropathy, food allergy, and eosinophilic gastroenteritis.

OBJECTIVE

To determine treatment for a woman with a 2 1/2-year history of edema and diarrhea.

DESIGN

We present a case report of a 47-year-old woman with protein-losing enteropathy and eosinophilic gastroenteritis who had positive results to allergy prick skin tests and increased allergen-specific IgE antibodies to numerous foods.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Laboratory studies revealed low levels of serum total protein and albumin. Biopsy specimens showed widespread eosinophilia. A restricted diet was recommended. An elemental diet was poorly tolerated, and the patient wanted to avoid systemic administration of corticosteroids. Thus, we initiated oral cromolyn sodium therapy.

RESULTS

After oral administration of cromolyn, the patient's condition improved dramatically; the diarrhea abated, and the edema resolved. Her serum albumin level returned to normal.

CONCLUSION

Oral cromolyn therapy should be considered in patients with eosinophilic gastroenteritis in whom food allergy has been implicated. No side effects associated with use of this drug were noted in our patient.