Prader-Willi Syndrome (USA) ALERT!!!

Risk of Stomach Necrosis and Rupture

Possibly Related to Chronic Gastroparesis

A Cause of Death from Sepsis, Gastric Necrosis or Blood Loss

Signs and symptoms of stomach necrosis and rupture:

• Vomiting
  • Any vomiting is very unusual in Prader-Willi syndrome
• Loss of appetite- (ominous sign)
• Lethargy
• Complaints of pain, usually non-specific
  • Pain sensation is abnormal in Prader-Willi syndrome due to high pain threshold; rarely complain of pain
  • Pain is often poorly localized
  • Peritoneal signs may be absent
• Abdominal/stomach bloating and dilatation
• Fever may or may not be present
  • Temperature regulation is altered in Prader-Willi syndrome
• Guaiac positive stools (chronic gastritis)

THESE SIGNS SHOULD RAISE SUSPICION OF STOMACH NECROSIS/RUPTURE AS A POSSIBLE DIAGNOSIS WHICH CAN BE LIFE THREATENING!

History may include:

• History of binge eating within the week
  • Hyperphagia and binge eating are characteristic of Prader-Willi syndrome, regardless of whether obese or slim
    • Frequently occurs after holiday, or social occasion with less supervision of intake
• History of gastroparesis
  • Common in Prader-Willi syndrome, though often undiagnosed
• Often slim or history of significant obesity followed by weight loss
  • May leave the stomach wall thinned

For more information call 800-926-4797.