Malabsorption
Key points
- Malabsorption is difficulty in the digestion or absorption of nutrients from food substances.
- Malabsorption can result from a broad spectrum of diseases.
- Prolonged malabsorption can result in malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies.
- Call to make an appointment with your health care provider if you notice symptoms of malabsorption.
Definition
Malabsorption is difficulty in the digestion or absorption of nutrients from food substances.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Malabsorption can result from a broad spectrum of diseases. Typically, malabsorption can be the failure to absorb specific sugars, fats, proteins, or vitamins, or it can be a general malabsorption of food. diarrhea, bloating or cramping, failure to thrive, frequent bulky stools, muscle wasting, and a distended abdomen may accompany malabsorption.
Malabsorption can affect growth and development, or it can lead to specific illnesses. Some of the causes of malabsorption include:
- Cystic fibrosis (the number one cause in the U.S.)
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Lactose intolerance
- Celiac disease (gluten-induced-enteropathy, sprue)
- Whipple disease
- Shwachman-Diamond syndrome
- Bovine lactalbumin intolerance (cow's milk protein)
- Soy milk protein intolerance
- Acrodermatitis enteropathica causing zinc malabsorption
- Biliary atresia
- Abetalipoproteinemia
- Vitamin B-12 malabsorption may be due to:
o Diphyllobothrium latum infestation
o Juvenile pernicious anemia - Parasites
o Giardia lamblia
o Strongyloides stercoralis
o Necator americanus (hookworm)
Symptoms
- Specific food avoidance
- Chronic diarrhea
- Bloating and flatulence (gas)
- Growth failure
Signs and tests
See the individual conditions.
Treatment
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.