Skip navigation

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/malabsorptionsyndromes.html

Malabsorption Syndromes

On this page

See, Play and Learn

  • No links available

Resources

Summary

Your small intestine does most of the digesting of the foods you eat. If you have a malabsorption syndrome, your small intestine cannot absorb nutrients from foods.

Causes of malabsorption syndromes include:

  • Celiac disease
  • Lactose intolerance
  • Short bowel syndrome. This happens after surgery to remove half or more of the small intestine. You might need the surgery if you have a problem with the small intestine from a disease, injury, or birth defect.
  • Whipple disease, a rare bacterial infection
  • Genetic diseases
  • Certain medicines

Symptoms of different malabsorption syndromes can vary. They often include chronic diarrhea, abnormal stools, weight loss, and gas. Your doctor may use lab, imaging, or other tests to make a diagnosis.

Treatment of malabsorption syndromes depends on the cause.

Start Here

Diagnosis and Tests

Related Issues

  • Alagille Syndrome From the National Institutes of Health (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)

Specifics

Genetics

Clinical Trials

Children

Patient Handouts

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.