malabsorptionszindrómák

Malabsorption refers to a group of conditions where the small intestine is unable to absorb adequate amounts of nutrients from ingested food. This can occur due to damage to the intestinal lining, deficiencies in digestive enzymes, or problems with the transport of nutrients across the intestinal wall. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific nutrients affected but commonly include diarrhea, weight loss, bloating, abdominal pain, and fatigue.

There are numerous causes of malabsorption. Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, damages the villi in the small intestine. Pancreatic insufficiency, where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes, is another common cause, often seen in conditions like cystic fibrosis or chronic pancreatitis. Bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine can also interfere with nutrient absorption. Certain infections, surgical resections of the small intestine, and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease can also lead to malabsorption.

Diagnosing malabsorption typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to check for nutrient deficiencies and antibodies, stool tests to assess digestive function and detect malabsorption, and sometimes imaging studies or endoscopic biopsies of the small intestine. Treatment strategies are tailored to the underlying cause and aim to restore normal nutrient absorption and manage symptoms. This may involve dietary changes, enzyme replacement therapy, medications to treat infections or inflammation, or in some cases, surgical intervention.