Protein-losing enteropathy in primary lymphoedema: Mesenteric lymphography and gut resection

Abstract

Patients with primary disease of the lymph system may present with hypoproteinaemia and peripheral oedema. The latter may be partly lymphatic and partly ‘famine’ oedema due to low serum protein. The hypoproteinaemia may be shown to be due to protein loss into the gut. At laparotomy characteristic changes caused by mesenteric lymph obstruction are visible. They may be further elucidated by mesenteric lymphography. Three patients have been treated by excision of the worst affected length of bowel and anastomosis. Their clinical and nutritional states have improved. There have been no complications.