Question

Describe histopathologics Findings of :
Autoimmune enteropathy.

Hint:

Autoimmune enteropathy is characterized by severe villous atrophy and infiltration of immune cells, highlighting the autoimmune nature of the disorder.

Answer 1

Autoimmune enteropathy is a rare disorder characterized by severe, chronic diarrhea and malabsorption due to autoimmune-mediated damage to the intestinal epithelium. Histopathologic findings include:
Step 1: Severe Villous Atrophy:
1. There is severe villous atrophy, often more pronounced than in celiac disease. The villi may be completely absent in severe cases.
Step 2: Intraepithelial Lymphocytes and Plasma Cells:
1. A marked infiltration of intraepithelial lymphocytes and plasma cells is seen. This is indicative of an autoimmune response affecting the intestinal epithelium.
Step 3: Crypt Hyperplasia and Intestinal Erosion:
1. Crypts are often elongated and hyperplastic, and there may be areas of epithelial erosion.