Definition
Malabsorption is difficulty in the digestion or absorption of nutrients from food.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Malabsorption can result from a wide range of diseases. Typically, malabsorption can be the failure to absorb specific sugars, fats, proteins, or vitamins. It can also be a general malabsorption of food. Diarrhea, bloating or cramping, failure to thrive, frequent bulky stools, muscle wasting, and a distended stomach 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
- Whipple disease
- Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (a genetic disease affecting the pancreas and bone marrow)
- Cow's milk protein intolerance
- Soy milk protein intolerance
- Biliary atresia
- Abetalipoproteinemia
- Vitamin B-12 malabsorption may be due to:
- Diphyllobothrium latum infestation
- Juvenile pernicious anemia
- Parasites
Symptoms
- Avoiding specific foods
- Chronic diarrhea
- Bloating and gas
- Growth failure
Signs and tests
See the individual conditions.
Treatment
See the individual conditions.
Expectations (prognosis)
See the individual conditions.
Complications
Long-term malabsorption can result in malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies.
Calling your health care provider
Call to make an appointment with your health care provider if you notice symptoms of malabsorption.
Prevention
See the individual conditions.
| • | Failure to thrive |
| • | Cystic fibrosis |
| • | Lactose intolerance |
| • | Celiac disease - sprue |
| • | Whipple’s disease |
| • | Biliary atresia |
| • | Bassen-Kornzweig syndrome... |
| • | Pernicious anemia |
| • | Giardiasis |
| • | Hookworm |
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
