Imaging of the small bowel by capsule endoscopy in Whipple's disease

Abstract

A 40-year-old male plasterer was assessed in the gastroenterology outpatient clinic to investigate the cause of iron-deficiency anemia and raised inflammatory markers (hemoglobin 7.7 g/dL, mean corpuscular volume 67 fl, iron level 2 µmol/L, erythrocyte sedimentation rate 106 mm/hour, C-reactive protein 91 mg/L). On direct questioning he reported a 2-year history of lethargy, 6-kg weight loss despite a normal appetite, and no bowel symptoms. On examination the patient was visibly cachectic, and had gynecomastia and axillary lymphadenopathy. He was admitted to hospital for further investigations.