Definition of Malabsorption
Malabsorption is difficulty absorbing nutrients from food.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Many diseases can cause malabsorption. Malabsorption is usually the inability to absorb certain sugars, fats, proteins, or vitamins from food. It can also involve a general malabsorption of food.
Treatment
Vitamin and nutrient replacement is often necessary.
Expectations (prognosis)
The outlook depends on the condition causing malabsorption.
Review
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 7/7/2010
