Case Reports of Cronkhite-Canada Syndrome

December 2015 in “ Medicine ”

Yi Yu, Peter J. Whorwell, Lin Heng Wang, Junxiang Li, Qing Chang, Jie Meng

Cronkhite-Canada syndrome CCS alopecia cutaneous hyperpigmentation onychomadesis

TLDR Cronkhite-Canada syndrome may be more treatable and less severe than previously thought.

Cronkhite-Canada Syndrome (CCS) was a rare, non-hereditary disorder characterized by gastrointestinal polyposis, alopecia, skin hyperpigmentation, and onychodystrophy. Patients typically presented with symptoms like diarrhea, weight loss, and abdominal pain. The study emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach to management, including nutritional support and corticosteroids. Despite treatment, the prognosis remained poor due to complications such as infections and gastrointestinal bleeding. However, newer treatments, including mesalamine, dexamethasone, and immunosuppressive therapies, showed promise in improving outcomes. Establishing an international case registry was recommended to better understand CCS's pathophysiology, treatment, and prognosis.