Macrophage activation syndrome: why and what should a gastroenterologist know

Abstract

We recently treated a patient with adult-onset Still's disease who developed macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) secondary to disseminated histoplasmosis while being treated with adalimumab. The gastroenterology service was consulted early, before diagnosis, as the patient presented with elevated liver enzymes and disseminated intravascular coagulation. MAS is an exaggerated immune response that can develop as a primary condition or secondary to infections, drugs and various diseases, resulting in liver dysfunction, encephalopathy, pancytopenia and disseminated intravascular coagulation. The development of MAS has also been reported in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and post-liver transplantation and has been triggered by medications used by gastroenterologists, particularly sulfasalazine and anti-tumor necrosis factor biologic modifiers. Therefore, we present a review on etiology, pathogenesis, clinical and laboratory features, and treatment of MAS with a focus on gastrointestinal aspects and presentations. MAS is a life threatening condition with a high mortality rate if untreated. Therefore it is important to recognize this condition early. As these patients may occasionally present to gastroenterologists we hope this review will increase awareness of this rare, but serious syndrome.