Pediatric malabsorption

What is pediatric malabsorption?

If a child's small intestine can't process certain sugars, fats, proteins or vitamins, it can lead to malnutrition.

What are the signs and symptoms of pediatric malabsorption?

• Abdominal cramping

• Bloating and gas

• Chronic diarrhea

• Failure to thrive

• Weight loss

How is pediatric malabsorption diagnosed?

There are several tests to diagnose malabsorption in children. A doctor will go over your child's medical history and perform a physical exam. Your healthcare provider may also perform one or more of the following tests:

• Blood tests

• Stool tests

• X-rays

• CT scan

• EGD with biopsy

What are the causes of pediatric malabsorption?

Malabsorption can be caused by disease; intolerance to milk proteins; lactose intolerance; intestinal parasites; or weight loss, stomach, intestinal, or bowel surgeries.

Diseases that can lead to malabsorption include:

• Celiac disease

• Certain cancers

• Crohn’s disease

• Cystic fibrosis

• Liver disease

• Pancreatitis

• Pernicious anemia

• Short bowel syndrome

How is pediatric malabsorption treated?

The cause of your child's malabsorption will determine the treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Medications to treat diarrhea, inflammation, and infection

• Treatments for contributing medical conditions

• Vitamin and mineral supplements

• American Academy of Pediatrics Healthy Children 

• North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition 

• MedLine Plus 

• Medscape