Malabsorption syndrome

Content provided by Healthwise

Malabsorption syndrome

Malabsorption syndrome is the inability to absorb nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from the intestinal tract into the bloodstream.

Causes may include:

Diseases affecting the intestine itself, such as celiac disease.
Absence or low levels of certain digestive enzymes.
Diseases of the pancreas, such as chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis.
Diseases caused by parasites, such as giardiasis or worms.
Changes in the bacteria normally found in the intestinal tract.
Surgery that alters or reduces the length of the intestinal tract.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Symptoms may include:

Gas, bloating, and vague abdominal discomfort.
Frequent diarrhea and foul-smelling stools.
Weakness.
Weight loss.

Your health professional can evaluate your symptoms to determine the cause and recommend treatment. Treatment may include a special diet, medicine to replace intestinal enzymes or reduce spasms, and vitamin or mineral supplements, such as B12 and iron.

Credits

Print Email SHARE

Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Last Updated	April 28, 2008

Print Email Twitter Facebook MySpace AIM More

Last updated:	April 28, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.