Malabsorption

Breath tests. A hydrogen breath test can help diagnose specific carbohydrate intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, as well as general small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.

Stool tests. A stool test can measure the fat content in your stools to diagnose fat malabsorption. It can also reveal parasitic infections, and it can show evidence of decreased pancreatic function.

Blood tests. These can show specific nutrient deficiencies that may result from malabsorption, as well as markers of specific conditions such as celiac disease.

Sweat test. This is a specific test for cystic fibrosis.

Imaging tests. Your healthcare provider may want to have a look at your digestive organs to look for signs of disease. They might take a GI X-ray exam, endoscopic ultrasound or video capsule endoscopy.

Small intestinal biopsy. Your healthcare provider may want to take a sample of small intestinal tissue to test in the lab. A biopsy can help show evidence of damage to the mucosa. They can take a sample during an endoscopic exam.

Malabsorption syndrome can have many underlying causes and also a wide range of effects. Your treatment will be based on these factors.

To treat the effects of malabsorption, you may need supplemental nutrition, either in an oral formula, by tube or through a vein. You may need specific digestive enzymes replaced, either to treat a food intolerance or general pancreatic insufficiency. If you have bile acid malabsorption, you may need bile acid sequestrants (food additive) to help prevent diarrhea.

Treating the underlying cause of malabsorption can be more complicated. If it’s only from a food intolerance, you may simply have to adjust your diet. Simple infections can be treated with antibiotics. But chronic diseases will require more particular treatment. Sometimes there is no direct cure, but lifestyle adjustments can help relieve symptoms.