malabsorbsi

Malabsorption is a medical condition in which the small intestine fails to absorb nutrients, water, or electrolytes properly. It can affect macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as vitamins and minerals. When malabsorption occurs, absorbed substances are either incompletely taken up or not taken up at all, leading to deficiencies and a range of symptoms. The term is used interchangeably with “digestive malabsorption” in clinical literature.

The causes of malabsorption are diverse. Structural problems such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, intestinal lymphoma, or surgery that removes part of the intestine can damage absorptive surfaces. Enzymatic deficiencies, including pancreatic insufficiency and lactase deficiency, prevent proper breakdown of food constituents. Bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine stops nutrients from being taken up, as does chronic bacterial infections. Additionally, some medications can impair absorption by affecting gut motility or interfering with nutrient uptake mechanisms.

Typical signs include chronic diarrhea, steatorrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain, and bloating. Specific nutrient deficiencies may cause anemia, bone disease, neurological signs, or growth retardation in children. Diagnosis involves stool tests for fat, blood tests for levels of vitamins and minerals, imaging of the intestine, endoscopic biopsies, and breath tests for carbohydrate malabsorption. Treatment targets the underlying cause. For example, a gluten‑free diet treats celiac disease, enzyme replacement treats pancreatic insufficiency, and antibiotics or probiotics address bacterial overgrowth. In many cases, nutritional supplementation of deficient vitamins, minerals, and calories is also required. Management of malabsorption improves quality of life and prevents long‑term complications.