UN CAZ RAR DE DIAREE CRONICĂ LA SUGAR.

Introduction: Chronic diarrhea is a frequent condition in pediatric gastroenterology practice. The causes are multiple and the delay in reaching the final diagnosis can lead to complications. VIPomas are rare neuroendocrine tumors that synthesize vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Watery diarrhea, hypokalemia and achlorhydria (WDHA) is associated with VIP-secreting neurogenic tumors involving the retroperitoneum or mediastinum in children. The aim of this work was to present the clinical and histo-genetic aspects of this rare entity. Material and Methods: The authors present an infant with chronic diarrhea, hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis secondary to a retroperitoneal VIPoma, with an initial diagnosis of cow's milk protein allergy non-responsive to elemental diet. Results: Laboratory findings showed excessive production of VIP. After surgical resection of the tumor, diarrhea subsided. Immunohistochemical examination confirmed the diagnosis of N-MYC negative ganglioneuroblastoma. Conclusions: The pediatricians should be informed that there might be some under-diagnosed tumoral causes of chronic diarrhea in infants. If the tumoral diagnosis is delayed and extensive gastrointestinal investigations are undertaken, avoidable complications may appear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]