Mechanisms and Management of Malasorptive Syndromes

General Issues:

Malabsorption can be due to many diseases (intestinal or extraintestinal) and/or medications which impair nutrient digestion, absorption or delivery. Symptoms depend on

1) the nutrient(s) malabsorbed,
2) the location or site of disease, and
3) extent of diseases.

Clinical consequences of fluid, electrolyte and nutrient (FEN) malabsorption are listed in Table 1.

Malabsorption of fat and CHO will result in symptoms including abdominal cramping pain, bloating, diarrhea, and weight loss. A careful history is important and guides the physician to tests which will confirm the clinical suspicion of malabsorption and should lead to a correct diagnosis.

Goals in management include:

1) treatment of the disease, when possible,
2) repletion of nutritional deficiencies, and
3) repletion of fluid and electrolyte losses.

Category: Gastroenterology Notes