Cutaneous manifestation of gastrointestinal disease

Abstract

The gastrointestinal (GI) and cutaneous systems are closely linked in origin. Skin manifestations are frequently seen as a part of different GI syndromes. Gastroenterologists play an important role in recognizing the symptoms, patient workup and arriving at appropriate diagnoses, often in consultation with dermatologists. This review discusses the diseases with both cutaneous and intestinal involvement. Hereditary polyposis GI cancers, hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancers (CRCs), hamartomatous disorders, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are reviewed with emphasis on the genetic basis, diagnostic, histologic findings, screening modalities, and therapeutic options.

Keywords: Skin; hamartomatous disorders; hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancers (CRCs); hereditary polyposis gastrointestinal (GI) cancers; inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); intestine.

Figure 1

Hyperplastic polyp in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (Hematoxyline and Eosin stain; original magnification: ×2).

Figure 2

Hyperpigmentation of the tongue in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome.

Figure 3

Sebaceous adenoma.

Figure 4

Sebaceous adenoma (Hematoxyline and Eosin stain; original magnification: ×20).

Figure 5

Tricholemmoma (Hematoxyline and Eosin stain; original magnification: ×20).