Nutritional aspects of malabsorption syndromes

Therapy of the malabsorption syndrome centers on adequate diagnosis of the underlying pathology, with vigorous therapeutic efforts directed at correcting this and thereby preventing ongoing losses of nutrients. Dietary therapy includes a high-protein, high-calorie, low-fat diet often supplemented with MCTs in an effort to minimize steatorrhea. Water-soluble vitamin deficiency is rare, but supplementation with small daily doses is innocuous and probably should be prescribed. Significant fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies are seen more commonly and can be monitored by physical examination and the prothrombin time. Calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D deficiencies are more common than originally suspected. Adequate therapy requires monitoring of the serum calcium, magnesium, parathyroid hormone levels, and, optimally, 24-hour urinary collections for calcium. Supplementation of these mineral deficiencies requires ongoing close observation to prevent hypercalcemia. Iron deficiency can be easily diagnosed by available serum iron determination, and replacement with oral supplements is curative. Trace metal deficiencies occur, but our capabilities of detecting and treating them is still in its infancy. Figure 3 outlines our approach to the evaluation and treatment of the patients suspected of having the malabsorption syndrome.