[Autoimmune enteropathy]

Abstract

Autoimmune enteropathy was initially described in young male infants presenting as severe secretory diarrhea. The disease is characterized by an inflammatory reaction which may involve several organs (bowel, pancreas, thyroid, kidneys, liver) with the presence of various circulating antibodies. The disease may also be observed in older children and in females with usually less bowel involvement. In view of the autoimmune basis of the disease, treatment requires immunosuppressive agents in addition to parenteral nutrition.