Malabsorption Syndrome

Topic Overview

Malabsorption syndrome is the inability to absorb nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from the intestinal tract into the bloodstream.

Causes may include:

• Diseases affecting the intestine itself, such as celiac disease.
• Absence or low levels of certain digestive enzymes.
• Diseases of the pancreas, such as chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis.
• Diseases caused by parasites, such as giardiasis or worms.
• Changes in the bacteria normally found in the intestinal tract.
• Surgery, such as removal of the gallbladder, that alters or reduces the length of the intestinal tract.
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Symptoms may include:

• Gas, bloating, and vague abdominal discomfort.
• Frequent diarrhea and foul-smelling stools.
• Weakness.
• Weight loss.

Your doctor can evaluate your symptoms to determine the cause and recommend treatment. Treatment may include a special diet, medicine to replace intestinal enzymes or reduce spasms, and vitamin or mineral supplements, such as B12 and iron.