Related Experiment Videos
Lactose intolerance and lactase deficiency in children
E H Rings1, R J Grand, H A Büller
1Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Current Opinion in Pediatrics
|October 1, 1994
Summary
Lactase deficiency, often implying abnormality, should be termed lactose malabsorption for genetically determined low lactase activity. This reflects the majority of the global population accurately.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Lactase deficiency is commonly used to describe low lactase enzyme levels causing lactose intolerance.
- This term is accurate for secondary lactase deficiency due to intestinal damage.
- The term implies abnormality in populations with genetically reduced lactase activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reframe the understanding of lactase deficiency.
- To differentiate between secondary and genetically determined lactase reduction.
- To promote accurate terminology for global populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of current terminology and scientific literature.
- Analysis of genetic control mechanisms at the transcriptional level.
- Evaluation of diagnostic methods like the lactose breath hydrogen test.
Main Results:
- Genetically determined lactase reduction affects the majority of the world's population.
- The term "lactose malabsorption" is more appropriate for genetically determined cases.
- Genetic control of lactase activity is primarily at the transcriptional level.
Conclusions:
- The term "lactose malabsorption" should replace "lactase deficiency" for genetically determined conditions.
- Accurate terminology is crucial to avoid stigmatizing large populations.
- Diagnosis involves clinical findings and lactose breath hydrogen tests, with biopsies for suspected mucosal diseases.