Malabsorption can result from a broad spectrum of diseases. Typically, malabsorption can be the failure to absorb specific sugars, fats, proteins, or vitamins, or it can be a general malabsorption of food. Diarrhea, bloating or cramping, failure to thrive, frequent bulky stools, muscle wasting, and a distended abdomen may accompany malabsorption.

Malabsorption can affect growth and development, or it can lead to specific illnesses. Some of the causes of malabsorption include:

• Cystic fibrosis (the number one cause in the U.S.)
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Lactose intolerance
• Celiac disease (gluten-induced-enteropathy, sprue)
• Whipple disease
• Shwachman-Diamond syndrome
• Bovine lactalbumin intolerance (cow's milk protein)
• Soy milk protein intolerance
• Acrodermatitis enteropathica causing zinc malabsorption
• Biliary atresia
• Abetalipoproteinemia
• Vitamin B-12 malabsorption may be due to:
  • Diphyllobothrium latum infestation
  • Juvenile pernicious anemia
• Parasites
  • Giardia lamblia
  • Strongyloides stercoralis
  • Necator americanus (hookworm)

• Specific food avoidance
• Chronic diarrhea
• Bloating and flatulence (gas)
• Growth failure

Prolonged malabsorption can result in malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies.

Call to make an appointment with your health care provider if you notice symptoms of malabsorption.