Malabsorption

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
  • Giardia lamblia
  • Strongyloides stercoralis
  • Necator americanus (hookworm)

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.