Malabsorption Flashcards
What is malabsorption?
This is defective mucosal absorption, caused by defective luminal digestion, mucosal disease or structural disorder
What are some important causes of malabsorption?
Coeliac disease
Crohn’s disease
Short bowel syndrome
Cirrhosis
Biliary obstruction
Lactase deficiency
Whipple’s disease
Tropical sprue
What are some deficiencies that can lead to easy bruising?
Vitamin C deficiency (Scurvy)
Vitamin K deficiency
What are some symptoms of malabsorption?
Diarrhoea
Steatorrhoea
What is acrodermatitis enteropathica?
This is an autosomal recessive disorder causing impaired zinc uptake, causing a rash (Perioral and acral) and alopecia
What is vitamin deficiency anaemia?
This is a lack of healthy red blood cells caused by lower than usual amounts of vitamin B12 and folate
What are some symptoms of vitamin deficiency anaemia?
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
What are some causes of vitamin B12 deficiency?
Diet - Found in meat, eggs and milk (Vegans at risk)
Pernicious anaemia - Body attacks cells that produce intrinsic factor
Gastric surgery
Intestinal problems
What are some causes of folate (B9) deficiency?
Intestinal diseases
Gastric surgery
Excessive alcohol consumption
Drugs e.g. anti-seizure medication
Who will have an increased demand for folate?
Women who are breastfeeding
People undergoing dialysis
What are some possible complications of B12 deficiency?
Pregnant complications - Defects of the spinal cord or brain
Nervous system disorders - Persistent tingling or balance problems, mental confusion and forgetfulness
Gastric cancer - Pernicious anaemia can increase risk of gastric or intestinal cancer
What are some foods rich in B12?
Beef, liver, chicken and fish
Eggs
Breakfast cereals
Milk, cheese, yoghurt
What are some foods rich in folate (B9)?
Broccoli, spinach, asparagus, lima beans
Organges, lemons, bananas, strawberries, melons
Bread, cereal, pasta and rice
Liver, kidneys, yeast, mushrooms and peanuts
