Chronic infantile diarrhea due to guanylate cyclase 2C overactivity

Definition

A rare, genetic, intestinal disease characterized by early-onset, chronic diarrhea and intestinal inflammation due to overactivity of guanylate cyclase 2C. Additional manifestations include meteorism, dehydration, metabolic acidosis and electrolyte disturbances. Intestinal dysmotility, small-bowel obstruction and esophagitis (with or without esophageal hernia), as well as irritable bowel syndrome (without severe abdominal pain) and Crohn's disease, are frequently associated.