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Intestinal malabsorption in cystic fibrosis
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|November 1, 1986
Summary
Cystic fibrosis patients show increased intestinal absorption of sugars, suggesting a gut issue contributes to malabsorption. This study used lactulose and L-rhamnose to assess intestinal function in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder affecting multiple organs, including the intestines.
- Malabsorption is a common complication in cystic fibrosis patients.
- The exact mechanisms of intestinal malabsorption in cystic fibrosis require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hypothesis of an intestinal component in cystic fibrosis-related malabsorption.
- To assess the intestinal absorption of specific non-metabolized sugars in cystic fibrosis patients.
Main Methods:
- Six patients with cystic fibrosis were orally administered a solution containing lactulose and L-rhamnose.
- Intestinal absorption was evaluated by measuring the urinary excretion of both sugars.
- The ratio of lactulose to L-rhamnose urinary excretion was calculated.
Main Results:
- The lactulose to L-rhamnose urinary excretion ratio was found to be elevated in cystic fibrosis patients.
- This finding indicates altered intestinal permeability or absorption.
Conclusions:
- The results support the hypothesis that intestinal malabsorption is a component of cystic fibrosis.
- Further research into gut-specific therapies for cystic fibrosis may be warranted.