Malabsorption syndrome is a condition in which the body is unable to adequately digest and absorb the nutrients derived from foods. The stomach secretes acids that break down food into digestible components, while the small intestine is the section of the gastrointestinal system responsible for absorbing nutrients. Malabsorption can deprive your body of the vitamins, minerals, fats, protein and carbohydrates you need to survive. Consult your doctor if you suspect you have a malabsorption syndrome.
Symptoms
The symptoms of malabsorption include abdominal bloating, diarrhea, flatulence, bulky, foul-smelling stools and amenorrhea, according to "The Merck Manual." Symptoms can also be a result of vitamin deficiencies consequent to malabsorption. Anemia, due to a lack of iron, B-12 or folate, is a common repercussion of malabsorption syndrome. It causes weakness and fatigue due to impairment of the body’s ability to deliver oxygen to the cells.
Causes
A disease or trauma that affects the small intestine or stomach can result in malabsorption syndrome. Researchers reporting in the Italian medical journal “Rays” say malabsorption syndromes have three possible underlying causes: poor digestion; contamination by bacteria; or abnormalities of the mucosa, which is the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Many different disorders fall into these categories. "The Merck Manual" lists celiac sprue, Intestinal lymphangiectasia, short bowel syndrome and Whipple’s disease among the possible causes of malabsorption.
Diagnosis
To diagnose malabsorption syndrome, your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and clinical history and may order lab tests to determine the fat content of your stool and blood tests to evaluate your nutritional status. You may need to have an endoscopic test and small bowel biopsy to assess the status of your intestinal mucosa. A hydrogen breath test can help detect an intolerance to lactose, and a pancreatic function test may be ordered if your doctor suspects the problem originates in your pancreas.
Treatment
The treatment for malabsorption varies according to the diagnosis. After determining the underlying cause of your malabsorption syndrome, your doctor will be best equipped to determine the correct type of treatment. If the condition has led to nutritional deficiencies, treatment may also involve correcting these through the use of supplements or dietary changes.
Member Comments