Intestinal Pseudo-obstruction with Steatorrhoea

Idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction in a family

“…These are normal in number and appearance by light microscopy, but some investigators [11] have been able to demonstrate degenerative changes of the myenteric plexus by using special histologic techniques. Hypertrophy of the inner muscular layer of the bowel wall was found in the first reported cases [1,6]. More recently, Schuffler et al [12] have reported marked thinning and degeneration of the smooth muscles.…”

“…Motility in the rest of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the small intestine, is grossly abnormal and is probably the beginning of the chain of events that constitutes this syndrome. As described by Naish et al [1], marked segmentation movements and ineffectual peristalsis of the gut are present initially. However, these gradually give way to hypomotility, atony and dilatation of the gut, and stagnation of its contents.…”

“…This may change to steatorrhea during the acute exacerbation. Steatorrhea was one of the main features in the first reported cases of Naish et al [1] and of McClelland et al [6], but this is now believed to be secondary in nature. The poor intestinal absorption together with the intermittent vomiting and inability to eat lead to malnutrition, weight loss, and eventual demise from starvation.…”

“…Idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (IIPO) is a rare entity which was first described by Naish et al [1] in 1960. It is characterized by repeated bouts of intestinal obstruction for which no underlying cause can be found.…”

Enterokinase in Contaminated Small-Bowel Syndrome

“…R utukkrts/M aingukt/T ytgat/Egghrmont enteritis, and two male patients with chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction [11]. 15 con trols had no evidence of gastrointestinal or pancreatic disease.…”