Malabsorption syndrome (abnormal intestinal digestion)

Description

Malabsorption syndromeis characterized by poor absorption of nutrients, vitamins and minerals from the intestinal tract into the bloodstream. Many disorders and conditions cause malabsorption, like celiac disease, certain medicines, certain types of cancer, certain types of surgery, chronic liver disease, chronic pancreatitis, Crohn's disease, and persistent parasite infections.

Symptoms

Bloating, cramps, gas, chronic diarrhea, greasy stool smelling unpleasantly, loss of weight, decrease in muscle mass.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and physical examination is being done. Multiple tests for determining the cause for malabsorption may be done, including blood tests, stool analysis, abdominal CT scan and endoscopy.

Tests

Complete blood count (CBC), biochemical blood analysis, CT scan, lipase and analyisis of urine.

Additional analyses

D-xylose test, hydrogen breath test, stool fat test, schilling test (test for absoption of vitamin B12), secretin stimulation test, small bowel biopsy, coproculture, culture of small intestine aspirate.

Specialists

Gastroenterology

Therapy

Treatment depends on the specific disease or condition causing the malabsorption. If the cause is chronic pancreatitis, oral taking of pancreatic enzymes may help. In addition, therapy should include efforts to correct deficiencies of proteins, calories, vitamins and minerals. Intravenous fluids and vitamins may be necessary if oral intake is not sufficient.