What causes steatorrhea and weight loss
Depending on the cause, anemia resulting from malabsorption can be either microcytic (iron deficiency) or macrocytic (vitamin B-12 deficiency). Also, patients find floating oil droplets in the toilet following defecation. The osmotic load resulting from the inability of the intestine to absorb certain nutrient elements causes the presenting symptoms. Internal server errors can occur for multiple reasons. Iron deficiency anemia often is a manifestation of celiac disease. Ecchymosis usually is the manifesting symptom, although, occasionally, melena and hematuria occur. For full information on 500 errors and how to resolve them, please. One of the most common is a resource issue, but incorrect permissions or an improper directive within the. On occasion, the products of digestion produced by bacterial flora also result in a secretory reaction by the intestine. Please confirm that you would like to log out of Medscape. Ileal involvement in Crohn disease or ileal resection can cause megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B-12 deficiency. htaccess file can also result in a 500 error.
Hypoalbuminemia from chronic protein malabsorption or from loss of protein into the intestinal lumen causes peripheral edema. Bacterial fermentation of unabsorbed food substances releases gaseous products, such as hydrogen and methane, causing flatulence. If you log out, you will be required to enter your username and password the next time you visit. Bleeding usually is a consequence of vitamin K malabsorption and subsequent hypoprothrombinemia. Bacterial action producing hydroxy fatty acids from undigested fat also can increase net fluid secretion from the intestine, further worsening the diarrhea. The hallmark of steatorrhea is the passage of pale, bulky, and malodorous stools. Diarrhea frequently is watery, reflecting the osmotic load received by the intestine. Such stools often float on top of the toilet water and are difficult to flush. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Flatulence often causes uncomfortable abdominal distention and cramps. Extensive obstruction of the lymphatic system, as seen in intestinal lymphangiectasia, can cause protein loss. The chance of weight loss increases in diffuse diseases involving the intestine, such as celiac disease and Whipple disease.
