Comprehensive treatment and a rare presentation of Cronkhite–Canada syndrome: Two case reports and review of literature

Abstract

BACKGROUND Cronkhite–Canada syndrome (CCS) is a rare sporadic polyposis syndrome that presents with gastrointestinal and ectodermal symptoms in addition to nutritional deficiencies. CCS combined with hypothyroidism is an even rarer condition, with no standard treatment guidelines. CASE SUMMARY The present study described 2 patients with CCS: A 67-year-old woman with concomitant hypothyroidism and 68-year-old man treated with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). Both patients had multiple gastrointestinal symptoms and ectodermal changes, along with multiple gastrointestinal polyps. Microscopic examination showed that the mucosa in both patients was hyperemic and edematous, with pathologic examination showing distorted, atrophic, and dilated glands. Patient 1 had concomitant hypothyroidism and was treated with levothyroxine. Due to her self-reduction of hormone dose, her disease relapsed. Patient 2 underwent EMR, but refused further hormonal or biological treatments. Subsequently, he was treated with an oral Chinese medical preparation. CONCLUSION Pharmacotherapy can induce and maintain remission in CCS patients, with adjuvant EMR, long-term follow-up, and endoscopic surveillance being necessary.