331-A group Rahmonberdiyev Begzod

Theme:Digestory system. Malabsorption Syndrome and acute bleeding in the

digestive tract
 Introduction

 Malabsorption syndrome is an umbrella term to describe the

disorders that reduce the body's ability to absorb nutrients from
food. Malabsorption can lead to indigestion and also malnutrition in
the long run. There can be various reasons why this occurs - can be
intestinal diseases, enzyme malfunctions or genetic disorders. In this
article, you will get a clear idea about the malabsorption symptoms,
their causes and treatment.
 How Foods Are Digested And Absorbed?

 Before knowing in detail about "what is malabsorption syndrome" let us take you through
the journey of food from the mouth to the rectum.
 The food you eat is moved into the stomach by the peristaltic movements of the
oesophagus (food pipe). When your food enters your stomach, the food is broken down
into small pieces called rhymes by the action of digestive juices and it is sent to the small
intestine. Here, the food is mixed with the juices from the pancreas, liver and intestine.
Additionally, other than breaking down the food particles, a small one-time also absorbs
the nutrients and water from your food. From here, the undigested and waste products of
food reach the rectum through the peristaltic movements of the large intestine. From the
rectum, it is flushed out of the body by bowel movements.
 Any disorders in digestion and absorption of foods in the small intestine can cause malabsorption. Based
on the absorptivity of the small intestine, malabsorption is of two types,
 Global or complete malabsorption: Under this condition, the small intestine would be unable to absorb
most of the nutrients.
 Partial or isolated malabsorption: As the name implies, the small intestine absorbs most nutrients
except a few specific ones.
 Various procedures are used to diagnose absorption syndrome. Some common ones include,
 Breath tests: Hydrogen tests can help in knowing the presence of lactose intolerances or any bacterial
overgrowth.
 Stool tests: Stool tests can help in diagnosing fat malabsorption, parasitic infections and pancreatic
disorders.
 Blood tests: Blood tests can show the nutrient deficiencies that are resulting from malabsorption.
 Sweat tests: Sweat tests are specifically used for diagnosing cystic fibrosis.
 Imaging tests: Imagining tests are used to examine your digestive organs for any signs of disease. The
procedures used in imaging tests are GI X-ray exam, endoscopic ultrasound or video capsule endoscopy.
 Biopsy: Your doctor may take a piece of your intestinal tissue during the endoscopic exam for learning
about any damage in the mucosa.
 Blood tests

 Blood tests are done to measure the level of nutrients in your bloodstream.
 People with malabsorption syndrome are more likely to experience nutrient
deficiencies. As a result, the healthcare provider may order lab work to assess
protein, vitamin B12, vitamin D, folate, iron, calcium, and other nutrients.
 However, blood work alone can’t diagnose or rule out malabsorption
syndrome. Nutrient deficiencies have multiple possible causes. So, even if a test
comes back low, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have malabsorption syndrome.
 And a normal lab level doesn’t mean you’re not having absorption problems
because it can take time for a deficiency to develop.
 Treatment

 Treatment for malabsorption syndrome depends on the cause.

 Your provider may start by treating any side effects of the malabsorption, like dehydration
and nutrient deficiencies. They may begin by replacing fluids and nutrients intravenously
(IV).
 After replacing some nutrients and fluids, your healthcare provider will look to treat and
manage the cause. For example, if you have celiac disease, you’ll need to avoid gluten. For
lactose intolerance, you’ll need to avoid most dairy foods.
 Your provider may refer you to a registered dietitian to help you make dietary changes to
meet your nutritional needs and develop a plan that works for you.
 Other treatments that may help malabsorption syndrome include:
 Summary

 Malabsorption syndrome is a condition in which the small intestine isn’t able to absorb
enough nutrients. It can be caused by food allergies, food intolerances, infections, and
digestive diseases. Symptoms of malabsorption syndrome include gas, bloating, diarrhea,
low energy, light colored stool, and anemia.
 It can be diagnosed with stool tests, blood work, breath tests, imaging, or a biopsy.
Treatment may include diet changes and supplements. If left untreated, malabsorption
syndrome can cause complications like a weak immune system, nutrient deficiencies, and
osteoporosis.
 Acute bleeding in the digestive tract

 Causes of Gastrointestinal Bleeding

 Gastritis- It is a condition where the stomach lining becomes inflamed due to factors such as
infection, excessive alcohol consumption, or long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs). This inflammation can lead to bleeding.
 Peptic ulcers- These are open sores that form in the stomach’s lining or upper small intestine
when the protective mucosal layer is damaged. They can cause bleeding.
 Esophageal Varices: Enlarged veins in the lower part of the oesophagus, often associated with
liver disease, such as cirrhosis. Esophageal varices can rupture and cause significant bleeding.
 Mallory-Weiss Tear: A tear or rupture in the junction between the oesophagus and stomach,
usually due to severe vomiting or retching. This condition can lead to bleeding.
 Colorectal Polyps or Cancer: Growths or tumours in the colon or rectum can bleed, especially
if they are large or ulcerate.
Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Bleeding

 Hematemesis: Vomiting of blood, which may appear bright red or have a coffee-ground-
like appearance if partially digested.
 Melena: Black, tarry stools caused by the digestion of blood in the stomach or upper
gastrointestinal tract.
 Hematochezia: Passage of bright red blood through the rectum, indicating lower
gastrointestinal bleeding.
 Abdominal Pain: Cramping or persistent abdominal discomfort can occur with
gastrointestinal bleeding.
 Fatigue and Weakness: Significant blood loss can lead to anaemia, causing fatigue,
weakness, and lightheadedness.
 Treatment Options for Gastrointestinal Bleeding

 Endoscopic Therapy: Endoscopy allows direct visualisation of the digestive tract. Therapeutic
procedures, such as injection of medications, application of heat, or placement of clips, can be
performed to stop bleeding or treat the underlying cause.
 Medications: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine receptor antagonists can reduce
stomach acid production, promoting healing in cases of peptic ulcers and gastritis. In some cases,
antibiotics may be prescribed to treat Helicobacter pylori infection.
 Blood Transfusion: Severe bleeding may require a blood transfusion to replace lost blood and
maintain haemoglobin levels.
 Surgery: Surgical intervention can be required in cases of severe bleeding or when endoscopic
therapy is ineffective. Surgery aims to repair damaged blood vessels, remove tumours or polyps,
or control bleeding.
 Supportive Care: Patients with gastrointestinal bleeding may require supportive care, including
intravenous fluids, to maintain hydration and close monitoring of vital signs.