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Evaluation of the patient with suspected malabsorption
1Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
Gastroenterology Clinics of North America
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Malabsorption involves defects in intestinal mucosal absorption, distinct from maldigestion, which affects intraluminal digestion. Understanding this difference is key for diagnosing malabsorption and related disorders.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Digestive Physiology
Background:
- Malabsorption is broadly defined as impaired nutrient absorption.
- A critical distinction exists between malabsorption (mucosal defect) and maldigestion (intraluminal defect).
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the definition and pathophysiology of malabsorption.
- To outline the diagnostic approach for malabsorption.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on intestinal absorption.
- Discussion of clinical signs, symptoms, and associated disorders.
- Explanation of normal intestinal absorption processes.
Main Results:
- Defines malabsorption as a mucosal phase defect.
- Defines maldigestion as an intraluminal phase defect.
- Highlights the importance of this distinction for diagnostic testing.
Conclusions:
- Accurate differentiation between malabsorption and maldigestion is crucial for effective patient evaluation.
- This article provides a framework for understanding and diagnosing malabsorption.
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