Case Reports of Cronkhite-Canada Syndrome
December 2015
in “
Medicine
”
TLDR Cronkhite-Canada syndrome may be more treatable and less severe than previously thought.
Cronkhite-Canada syndrome (CCS) is a rare, nongenetic polyposis syndrome characterized by diffuse polyposis of the digestive tract and ectodermal changes like onychomadesis, alopecia, and cutaneous hyperpigmentation. With ∼400 cases reported, primarily from Japan and 49 from China, CCS symptoms include diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal complications. Traditionally associated with poor prognosis, recent literature suggests CCS may be more benign and potentially reversible with treatment. Evidence points to infection or immune disturbances in its pathophysiology, indicating therapeutic potential in targeting these abnormalities. Establishing an international case registry is recommended to better understand CCS's pathophysiology, treatment, and prognosis.