Maldigestion Versus Malabsorption in the Elderly

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Geriatrics
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Malnourishment may be increasing in hospitalized older adults, but often due to reduced intake, not maldigestion or malabsorption.
• Digestive and absorptive mechanisms remain resilient in old age.
• Concurrent illnesses are the primary drivers of malabsorption in the elderly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on maldigestion and malabsorption in older adults.
• To identify common causes and diagnostic approaches for these conditions in the elderly.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recently published studies.
• Analysis of diagnostic schemes for maldigestion and malabsorption in older individuals.

Main Results:

• Illnesses like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, and diabetes are common causes.
• Previous surgeries and medications can also induce malabsorption.
• Elderly patients may present differently, leading to delayed diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Maldigestion and malabsorption occur in older adults and require a high index of suspicion.
• Early recognition is crucial, particularly when weight loss, sarcopenia, or nutrient deficiencies are present.
• Diagnostic testing is similar to that used in younger patients.