CRONKHITE-CANADA SYNDROME

Cronkhite-Canada syndrome (CCS) is an extremely rare disease characterized by various intestinal polyps, loss of taste, hair loss, and nail growth problems. It is difficult to treat because of malabsorption that accompanies the polyps. CCS occurs primarily in the older population (average age 59) and predominantly occurs in males.It is considered to be an acquired, not hereditary, disease.

SYMPTOMS OF CRONKHITE-CANADA SYNDROME

• Polyps in stomach, duodenum and colorectum.
• chronic or recurring watery diarrhea
• cramps
• abdominal discomfort
• cachexia
• malnutrition
• nausea
• Vomiting
• hyperpigmentation, hair loss, and nail dystrophy.

In females 15% will have malignancy Cowden syndrome (multiple hamartoma—neoplasia syndrome) ™

CAUSE OF CRONKHITE-CANADA SYNDROME :

exact cause of Cronkhite-Canada syndrome is unknown. It seems to occur for no known reason (sporadically)

DIAGNOSIS OF CRONKHITE-CANADA SYNDROME :

Diagnostic criteria for Cronkhite Canada Syndrome is based on symptoms and particular features; however, there is no specific diagnostic test for this syndrome. The mean age of onset is 60, ranging from 31 to 86 years old. There are usually large numbers of polyps in the digestive tract, most often sparing the esophagus. The polyps have hamartomatous features, meaning they contain mucus and are inflamed within an intact surface.

COMPLICATIONS OF CRONKHITE-CANADA SYNDROME

• Anaemia
• Protein-losing enteropathy causing hypoproteinaemia and peripheral oedema
• Malnutrition including vitamin deficiencies
• Intussusception and rectal prolapse
• Pancreatitis
• Gastrointestinal malignancy - gastric and colorectal - 15%
• Portal vein thrombosis
• Membranous glomerulonephritis

HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICINE  FOR CRONKHITE-CANADA SYNDROME

• CAL CARB
• THUJA
• CONIUM MAC
• NIT ACID
• CAL PHOS