Lymphangiectasia is one of the main differential diagnoses for protein-losing enteropathy.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Not mentioned

Answer: (A)

Protein-losing enteropathy happens when proteins leak into the gastrointestinal tract. Lymphangiectasia fits this pattern because it involves dilation or obstruction of the intestinal lymphatics, causing lymph rich in albumin and other proteins to leak into the gut lumen. This directly produces hypoalbuminemia and edema, which are hallmark features of PLE. Because its mechanism is a loss of proteins through abnormal lymphatics in the gut, lymphangiectasia is a classic and important differential diagnosis to consider when evaluating protein-losing enteropathy. Diagnosis is supported by tests such as fecal alpha-1 antitrypsin clearance and, on biopsy, dilation of intestinal lacteals.