Mixed-Type Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis Induced by Colored Clay Ingestion in an Adolescent: A Case Report

Jie Gu, Meixiang Fan, Yanyan Huang and Liu Yuan

Department of General Practice, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China Huayang Community Health Center, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China

^*Correspondance to: Yanyan Huang 

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Abstract:

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EGE) is a rare allergic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by pathological eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal wall. Common triggers include food allergens, parasitic infections, and medications, whereas non-food substances have rarely been implicated. We report a case of severe mixed-type EGE in an 18-year-old female triggered by ingestion of colored clay purchased via a social media platform. The patient presented with progressive abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bowel obstruction. Laboratory findings revealed marked leukocytosis with eosinophilia (EOS 75.0%), markedly elevated serum IgE (1207.20 IU/mL), and eosinophil-predominant ascites (84% eosinophils). Endoscopic biopsies demonstrated significant eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal mucosa (up to 50 per high-power field in the rectum). After systematic exclusion of clonal eosinophilic disorders, parasitic infections, and malignancy, a definitive diagnosis of mixed-type EGE was established. Intravenous methylprednisolone (40 mg/day) produced rapid clinical and hematological improvement, with successful tapering and discontinuation without relapse. This case expands the spectrum of recognized EGE triggers to include non-food substances marketed through social media and highlights the need for general practitioners to incorporate inquiry into social media-influenced consumption behaviors in clinical history-taking. It also underscores the importance of extending the gatekeeper role of primary care into the digital community.

Keywords:

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis; Clay Ingestion; Social media; Adolescent; Food safety; General practice

Cite the Article:

Gu J, Fan M, Huang Y, Yuan L. Mixed- Type Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis Induced by Colored Clay Ingestion in an Adolescent: A Case Report. Ann Clin Case Rep. 2026; 11: 2835..