Chronic eosinophilic ascites in a very young child

Eur J Pediatr. 2003 Oct;162(10):666-8. doi: 10.1007/s00431-003-1279-7. Epub 2003 Aug 12.

Abstract

A case of chronic eosinophilic ascites with onset in early infancy is described. An intensive diagnostic work-up ruled out other known causes of ascites in childhood. The final diagnosis was made at 2 years of age when a large number of eosinophils was detected in the ascitic fluid. The outcome was complicated by an ex vacuo intraperitoneal haemorrhage. Steroids were able to control the disease only after complete aspiration (1600 ml) of the ascitic fluid. On discontinuation of treatment, peritoneal inflammation recurred indicating steroid-dependency.

Conclusion: eosinophilic ascites, a very rare disorder in children, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of even very young children presenting with ascites.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Ascites / complications
  • Ascites / diagnosis*
  • Ascites / diagnostic imaging
  • Ascites / therapy
  • Child, Preschool
  • Chronic Disease
  • Eosinophilia*
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Humans
  • Libya
  • Male
  • Paracentesis
  • Peritoneal Cavity
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed