Korean J Med.  2014 Nov;87(5):585-588. 10.3904/kjm.2014.87.5.585.

Hypereosinophilic Syndrome Presenting as Intussusception in Adults

• Chon N
• Kim W
• Park SY
• Kim KH

• KMID: 2269200
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3904/kjm.2014.87.5.585

Abstract

Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is characterized by persistent eosinophilia associated with damage to multiple organs. Although the diagnostic criteria for HES include sustained hypereosinophilia for at least 6 months, early initiation of therapy may be recommended in patients exhibiting HES symptoms. Eosinophilic enteritis has been reported as a cause of intussusception in several cases. However, HES as a cause of intussusception has not yet been reported. In the present report, we describe a case of HES that manifested as jejunojejunal intussusception. Although long-standing hypereosinophilia was not confirmed, the patient required eosinophil-lowering therapy for an intestinal obstruction. The patient was treated with systemic corticosteroids, after which the symptoms and multiple organ involvement, including intussusception, improved dramatically, as noted on the radiological investigation. Moreover, surgery was not necessary.

Keyword

Hypereosinophilic syndrome; Intussusception

MeSH Terms

Adrenal Cortex Hormones
Adult*
Enteritis
Eosinophilia
Eosinophils
Humans
Hypereosinophilic Syndrome*
Intestinal Obstruction
Intussusception*
Adrenal Cortex Hormones