Inflammatory cloacogenic polyp: an unrecognized cause of hematochezia and tenesmus in childhood.

The rectal "inflammatory cloacogenic polyp" is a recognized pathologic entity in adulthood. We report three cases in children aged between 8 and 12 years. This disorder should be included in the differential diagnosis in patients with hematochezia and tenesmus. These polyps are usually located at the anorectal junction and so may be overlooked at colonoscopy unless an endoscopic retroflexion maneuver is performed.

Glucose polymer as a cause of protracted diarrhea in infants with unsuspected congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency.

OBJECTIVE: To describe four infants with protracted diarrhea caused by glucose polymer intolerance resulting from congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency. METHODS: The diagnosis of congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency was established by mucosal disaccharidase assay. In each case the clinical response to discontinuation of glucose polymer was documented. RESULTS: The median age at the onset of symptoms was 3 weeks (range, 2 to 16 weeks). In three infants the formula had been prescribed for presumed postgastroenteritis diarrhea, and in a fourth it was begun after resection of a short-segment congenital ileal atresia. In each infant watery diarrhea occurred and persisted for many months, and it was assumed that the original gastrointestinal disorder was responsible. In two cases, parenteral nutrition was administered for persistent failure to thrive. Ultimately, investigation revealed the underlying congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency, and elimination of glucose polymer from the diet led to immediate recovery in each case. CONCLUSION: Congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency should be considered a possible cause of protracted diarrhea in infants receiving glucose polymer-based feedings.