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Introduction: Euthyroid patients show decreased TSH level following sleeve gastrectomy. However, studies of levothyroxine absorption after bariatric surgery reported contradictory results and data on levothyroxine dose adjustment according to weight are sparse. The aim of this study was to evaluate levothyroxine dose adjustment during weight loss following sleeve surgery., Method: This retrospective study assessed change in levothyroxine dose in patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy at the university hospital center of Nîmes (France) between January 2010 and March 2016. Patients were receiving standard bariatric surgery follow-up with levothyroxine therapy for hypothyroidism., Results: Fifty-two of the 271 patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy (19.2%) were being treated with levothyroxine. Among these patients, 31 were followed up for 12 months, including 12 who were followed up for 24 months. Mean weight loss was 35±11kg at 12 months and 41.8±10.2 kg at 24 months. Daily levothyroxine dose decreased from 108 [88-144] μg/day to 94 [63-125] μg/day at 12 months and 69 [44-134] μg/day at 24 months, with positive correlation between dose and weight loss at 12 months (P=0.03). Weight-adjusted dose was 1.04 [0.81-1.24] μg/kg/day at baseline, 1.14 [0.85-1.66] μg/kg/day at 12 months, and 0.85 [0.53-2.10] μg/kg/day at 24 months, showing no correlation with weight loss. Median TSH level dropped to 1.30 [0.63-2.27] mIU/l at 12 months and 1.48 [1.08-2.42] mIU/l at 24 months., Conclusion: Despite a decrease in daily levothyroxine dose correlating with weight loss at 12 months, the absence of correlation with weight-adjusted dose suggests the involvement of confounding factors such as poor levothyroxine absorption or altered thyroid function. Further studies are required to elucidate the absorption of levothyroxine., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Background: Most patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) suffer from pancreatic insufficiency (PI), leading to fat malabsorption, malnutrition, abdominal discomfort and impaired growth. Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) is effective, but evidence based guidelines for dose adjustment are lacking. A mobile app for self-management of PERT was developed in the context of the HORIZON 2020 project MyCyFAPP. It contains an algorithm to calculate individual PERT-doses for optimal fat digestion, based on in vitro and in vivo studies carried out in the same project. In addition, the app includes a symptoms diary, educational material, and it is linked to a web tool allowing health care professionals to evaluate patient's data and provide feedback., Methods: A 6-month open label prospective multicenter interventional clinical trial was performed to assess effects of using the app on gastro-intestinal related quality of life (GI QOL), measured by the CF-PedsQL-GI (shortened, CF specific version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, Gastrointestinal Symptoms Module)., Results: One hundred and seventy-one patients with CF and PI between 2 and 18 years were recruited at 6 European CF centers. Self-reported CF-PedsQL-GI improved significantly from month 0 (M0) (84.3, 76.4-90.3) to month 6 (M6) (89.4, 80.35-93.5) (p< 0.0001). Similar improvements were reported by parents. Lower baseline CF-PedsQL-GI was associated with a greater improvement at M6 (p < 0.001)., Conclusions: The results suggest that the MyCyFAPP may improve GI QOL for children with CF. This tool may help patients to improve self-management of PERT, especially those with considerable GI symptoms., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest All authors report grants from the European Commission Horizon 2020 during the conduct of the study. Dr. Mainz reports grants and personal fees from Vertex Corp.,  during the conduct of the study; Dr. Janssens reports grants from Vectura, personal fees from Vertex, outside the submitted work; Dr. Boon reports grants from University Hospital Leuven, outside the submitted work; Dr. De Boeck reports other financial support from Boehringer, Protalix, Raptor, Teva, Novabiotics, Eloxx, Vertex, Galapagos, Chiesi, outside the submitted work. Several authors of this publication are member of the European Reference Network for Rare Respiratory Diseases (ERN-LUNG) - Project ID No 739546., (Copyright © 2020 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Clinical practice guidelines that recommend women avoid pregnancy immediately after bariatric surgery, highlighting the need for effective contraception. However, women with a history of malabsorptive bariatric procedures should generally not use oral contraceptives, as these procedures may decrease oral contraceptive effectiveness., Objectives: To identify provider characteristics associated with knowledge of combined oral contraceptive (COC) effectiveness., Setting: United States., Methods: We analyzed weighted survey data collected from national samples of public-sector health centers and office-based physicians who regularly provide family planning services (N = 2060). We asked providers about the effectiveness of COCs for women with a history of malabsorptive procedures compared with healthy women, giving them the response options of more/equally effective, less effective, and do not know. We used multinomial logistic regression to calculate adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals to identify characteristics associated with knowledge of COC effectiveness., Results: Approximately 55% of providers correctly answered that COCs are less effective for women with malabsorptive procedures; 25% considered COCs more/equally effective, and 20% were uncertain. Among public-sector providers, the adjusted odds of uncertainty were significantly higher for those whose clinical focus was not reproductive health, for nurses versus advanced practice clinicians, and for providers working in clinics without Title X funding. For office-based physicians, adolescent medicine providers had higher odds of uncertainty versus obstetrician-gynecologists. Physicians practicing in settings classified as "other" (such as community health centers) had higher odds of considering COCs effective compared with those practicing in hospital or university clinics., Conclusions: Substantial proportions of surveyed providers had inadequate knowledge of COC effectiveness for women with a history of malabsorptive procedures., (Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Background : In research settings that use metabolic balance studies (MBSs) of stable adult patients with short bowel syndrome, intestinal failure (IF) and dependence on parenteral support (PS) have been defined objectively as energy absorption <84% of calculated basal metabolic rate (BMR), wet weight (WW) absorption <23 g · kg body weight -1 · d -1 , or both. Objective: This study aimed to explore and validate these borderlines in the clinical setting. Design: Intestinal absorption was measured from April 2003 to March 2015 in 175 consecutive patients with intestinal insufficiency (INS) in 96-h MBSs. They had not received PS 3 mo before referral. Results: To avoid the need for PS, the minimum absorptive requirements were energy absorption of ≥81% of BMR and WW absorption of ≥21 g · kg body weight -1 · d -1 , which were equivalent to findings in research settings (differences of 3.6% and 8.7%; P = 0.65 and 0.60, respectively). Oral failure defined as energy intake <130% of calculated BMR or WW intake <40 g · kg body weight -1 · d -1 was seen in 71% and 82% of the 10% of patients with the lowest energy absorption and WW absorption, respectively. Conclusions: In clinical settings, the borderlines between INS and IF were not significantly different from those in research settings, even in an unselected patient population in which oral failure was also a predominant cause of nutritional dyshomeostasis. MBSs may be recommended to identify the individual patient in the spectrum from INS to IF, to objectivize the cause of nutritional dyshomeostasis (oral failure, malabsorption, or both), and to quantify the effects of treatment., (© 2017 American Society for Nutrition.)

Background: Omega-loop gastric bypass (OLGB) may be associated with severe complications, including anastomotic leak, refractory ulcer or stenosis, undernutrition, and disabling digestive disorders (chronic diarrhea, steatorrhea, bile reflux, and vomiting). OLGB conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) was suggested to treat these complications., Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and risk of severe complications after OLGB conversion to RYGB., Setting: University hospital., Methods: Retrospective analysis between October 2011 and June 2016., Results: Seventeen patients underwent OLGB conversion to RYGB. Fourteen patients (82%) presented at least 1 disabling digestive disorder. Before conversion, 10 patients (58.8%) received nutritional support for undernutrition. There was no postoperative mortality. Seven patients (41.1%) developed major adverse events (<90 d). At conversion, the average weight, body mass index, and percent of excess weight loss for the population without undernutrition (n = 7) were 103.7±24 kg, 38.7±6.8 kg/m², and 37%±33%, respectively. These values were 85±18.3 kg, 30.6±4.7 kg/m², and 73.3%±21.5%, respectively, at 2 years. In patients with undernutrition (n = 10), the average weight, body mass index, and percent of excess weight loss were 52.2±16.5 kg, 18.7±5.9 kg/m², and 149.3%±46.5%, respectively, before nutritional support and 58.9±14.7 kg, 21.1±5.2 kg/m², and 132.7%±39.1%, respectively, at revisional surgery. At 2 years the values were 71±5.6 kg, 24.3±2.2 kg/m², and 104.6%±15.2%, respectively. The patients experienced significant improvements in hypoalbuminemia, anemia, and vitamin/trace element deficiencies. The disabling digestive disorders resolved in 85% of patients., Conclusion: The conversion of OLGB to RYGB for severe complications allows for weight correction in patients with undernutrition, reduces disabling digestive disorders, and improves the nutritional status of patients. However, the conversion is associated with high morbidity., (Copyright © 2017 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-shortening autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). CFTR is an anion channel that conducts bicarbonate and chloride across cell membranes. Although defective anion transport across epithelial cells is accepted as the basic defect in CF, many of the features observed in people with CF and organs affected by CF are modulated by the nervous system. This is of interest because CFTR expression has been reported in both the peripheral and central nervous systems, and it is well known that the transport of anions, such as chloride, greatly modulates neuronal excitability. Thus it is predicted that in CF, lack of CFTR in the nervous system affects neuronal function. Consistent with this prediction, several nervous system abnormalities and nervous system disorders have been described in people with CF and in animal models of CF. The goal of this special feature article is to highlight the expression and function of CFTR in the nervous system. Special emphasis is placed on nervous system abnormalities described in people with CF and in animal models of CF. Finally, features of CF that may be modulated by or attributed to faulty nervous system function are discussed., (Copyright © 2016 American College of Chest Physicians. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: There are minimal long-term data on biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) with or without duodenal switch (BPD/DS)., Objectives: To investigate the long-term weight loss, co-morbidity remission, complications, and quality of life after BPD and BPD/DS., Setting: An academic, university hospital in the United States., Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent BPD or BPD/DS between 1999 and 2011. Outcomes included weight loss measures at 2, 5, and 10-15 years postoperatively; co-morbidity remission; long-term complications; nutritional deficiencies; and patient satisfaction., Results: One hundred patients underwent BPD (34%) or BPD/DS (64%). Mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) was 50.2 kg/m 2 . Mean follow up was 8.2 years (range: 1-15 yr) with 72% of eligible patients in active follow up at 10-15 years postoperatively. Excess weight loss (EWL) was 65.1% at 2 years, 63.8% at 5 years, and 67.9% at 10-15 years. Approximately 10% higher %EWL was achieved for those with preoperative BMI<50 kg/m 2 versus≥50 kg/m 2 and patients who underwent BPD/DS versus BPD. Although co-morbidities improved, 37% of patients developed long-term complications requiring surgery. There were no 30-day mortalities; however, there was one mortality from severe malnutrition. Nutritional deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins, anemia, and secondary hyperparathyroidism were common. Overall, 94% of patients reported satisfaction with their choice of surgery., Conclusion: This clinical experience supports the long-term positive safety profile and efficacy of BPD and BPD/DS at a single U.S. center. Higher levels of excess weight loss are achieved by patients with a lower preoperative BMI and BPD/DS. Although nutritional deficiencies and postoperative complications are common, patient satisfaction remains high., (Copyright © 2016 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Malnutrition is both a frequent feature and a comorbidity of cystic fibrosis (CF), with nutritional status strongly associated with pulmonary function and survival. Nutritional management is therefore standard of care in CF patients. ESPEN, ESPGHAN and ECFS recommended guidelines to cover nutritional management of patients with CF., Methods: The guidelines were developed by an international multidisciplinary working group in accordance with officially accepted standards. The GRADE system was used for determining grades of evidence and strength of recommendation. Statements were discussed, submitted to Delphi rounds, reviewed by ESPGHAN and ECFS and accepted in an online survey among ESPEN members., Results: The Working Group recommends that initiation of nutritional management should begin as early as possible after diagnosis, with subsequent regular follow up and patient/family education. Exclusive breast feeding is recommended but if not possible a regular formula is to be used. Energy intake should be adapted to achieve normal weight and height for age. When indicated, pancreatic enzyme and fat soluble vitamin treatment should be introduced early and monitored regularly. Pancreatic sufficient patients should have an annual assessment including fecal pancreatic elastase measurement. Sodium supplementation is recommended and a urinary sodium:creatinine ratio should be measured, corresponding to the fractional excretion of sodium. If iron deficiency is suspected, the underlying inflammation should be addressed. Glucose tolerance testing should be introduced at 10 years of age. Bone mineral density examination should be performed from age 8-10 years. Oral nutritional supplements followed by polymeric enteral tube feeding are recommended when growth or nutritional status is impaired. Zinc supplementation may be considered according to the clinical situation. Further studies are required before essential fatty acids, anti-osteoporotic agents, growth hormone, appetite stimulants and probiotics can be recommended., Conclusion: Nutritional care and support should be an integral part of management of CF. Obtaining a normal growth pattern in children and maintaining an adequate nutritional status in adults are major goals of multidisciplinary cystic fibrosis centers., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.)

Background: Pancreatic insufficient cystic fibrosis (CF) patients receive vitamin A supplementation according to CF-specific recommendations to prevent deficiencies. Whether current recommendations are optimal for preventing both deficiency and toxicity is a subject of debate. We assessed the longitudinal relation between serum retinol levels and appropriate variables., Methods: We studied vitamin A intake, and the long-term effects of vitamin A intake, coefficient of fat absorption (CFA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) on serum retinol levels in 221 paediatrics CF patients during a seven-year follow up period., Results: Total vitamin A intake, derived from 862 dietary assessments, exceeded the tolerable upper intake level in 30% of the assessments, mainly up to age six. Although CF patients failed to meet the CF-specific recommendations, serum retinol deficiency was found in only 17/862 (2%) of the measurements. Longitudinally, we observed no association to serum retinol levels for total vitamin A intake, CFA, gender or age but serum retinol levels were associated with serum IgG levels. Each g/L increase in serum IgG level would result in a 2.49% (95% CI -3.60 to -1.36%) reduction in serum retinol levels., Conclusion: In this large sample of children and adolescents with CF, serum retinol deficiency was rare despite lower than the CF-specific recommendations. However, the TUL was commonly exceeded. A reduction in CF-specific vitamin A supplementation recommendations should therefore be considered. Moreover, serum retinol levels were not associated with vitamin A intake, CFA, gender or age, although a decreased serum retinol was associated with an increased serum IgG., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.)

Background & Aims: Refractory celiac disease type II (RCDII) and EATL (Enteropathy Associated T-cell Lymphoma) are (pre)malignant complications of celiac disease (CD). Data on malnutrition and intestinal absorption is lacking in these patients. Therefore, the aim of the study is to comprehensively assess nutritional status and intestinal absorption capacity of patients with RCDII and EATL, compared with data of newly diagnosed CD patients., Methods: Observational study in tertiary care setting in RCDII (n = 24, 63.8 ± 8.2 y), EATL (n = 25, 62.3 ± 5.7 y) and CD patients (n = 43, 45.6 ± 14.8 y). At diagnosis, anthropometry (BMI, unintentional weight loss, fat-free mass index (FFMI), handgrip strength (HGS), nutritional intake, fecal losses and Resting Energy Expenditure (REE)) were assessed., Results: Low BMI (<18.5) was more often observed in RCDII patients than in CD or EATL patients (in 33%, 12% and 12%, respectively, p = 0.029). EATL patients more frequently had unintentional weight loss (>10%) than CD or RCDII patients (in 58%, 19% and 39% of patients, respectively; p = 0.005/0.082). Energy malabsorption (<85%) was detected in 44% and 33% of RCDII and EATL patients, vs 21.6% in CD (NS). Fecal energy losses were higher in RCDII than in CD patients (589 ± 451 vs 277 ± 137 kcal/d, p = 0.017). REE was underestimated by predicted-REE with>10% in 60% of RCDII, 89% of EATL, and 38% of CD patients (p = 0.006). Low FFMI and HGS were detected in one third and two thirds of all patients, respectively., Conclusions: The nutritional status of patients with RCDII and EATL is inferior compared with untreated naïve CD patients at presentation. Both malabsorption as well as hypermetabolism contribute to malnutrition., (Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Background: Biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) is a surgical technique burdened, in some instances, by clinical evidence of malabsorption and intractable diarrhoea., Objectives: To compare calcium metabolism together with weight in patients undergoing BPD versus BPD followed by revisional surgery because of side effects of BPD or ineffectiveness of BPD., Setting: University hospital., Methods: Twenty-seven patients underwent BPD. After a median period of 48 months, they underwent revisional surgery (elongation of the common limb from 50 to 200 cm and reduction of the gastric pouch from 500 to 40 mL) and were observed for a total period of 120 months; 40 patients only underwent BPD (controls) and were observed for an identical period., Results: At baseline, 24 patients (8 revisional surgery and 16 controls) had increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, and only 3 patients had normal 25(OH)vitamin D levels; calcium declined, even within normal limits, and PTH increased in the revisional surgery group. After revisional surgery, patients experienced a further decrease of weight, together with a reduction of PTH levels, an increase of 25(OH)vitamin D levels, and an increase of calcium levels. Weight loss was inverserly associated with an increase of 25(OH)vitamin D and directly associated with change of PTH., Conclusion: This study suggests that it is possible to control effects of BPD on calcium metabolism through a revisional procedure leading to lesser malabsorption and to greater restriction of the gastric pouch. It should be considered in the presence of significant side effects due to excessive malabsorption., (Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

This review focuses on the acquired causes, diagnosis, and treatment of intestinal malabsorption. Intestinal absorption is a complex process that depends on many variables, including the digestion of nutrients within the intestinal lumen, the absorptive surface of the small intestine, the membrane transport systems, and the epithelial absorptive enzymes. Acquired causes of malabsorption are classified by focussing on the three phases of digestion and absorption: 1) luminal/digestive phase, 2) mucosal/absorptive phase, and 3) transport phase. Most acquired diseases affect the luminal/digestive phase. These include short bowel syndrome, extensive small bowel inflammation, motility disorders, and deficiencies of digestive enzymes or bile salts. Diagnosis depends on symptoms, physical examination, and blood and stool tests. There is no gold standard for the diagnosis of malabsorption. Further testing should be based on the specific clinical context and the suspected underlying disease. Therapy is directed at nutritional support by enteral or parenteral feeding and screening for and supplementation of deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. Early enteral feeding is important for intestinal adaptation in short bowel syndrome. Medicinal treatment options for diarrhoea in malabsorption include loperamide, codeine, cholestyramine, or antibiotics., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The gastrointestinal tract, affecting more than 90% of patients, is the internal organ most frequently involved in systemic sclerosis. Any part of the gastrointestinal tract can be affected, from the mouth to the anus. Patients often experience reduced quality of life and impaired social life. Although only 8% have severe gastrointestinal involvement, mortality is high in those patients. Recent studies on the pathophysiology of the disease highlight new mechanisms to explain gastrointestinal dysmotility, but treatment remains symptomatic. This article reviews the pathophysiology of the gastrointestinal tract and discusses the investigation and management of the disease., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

A preterm male neonate was diagnosed as having microvillus inclusion disease based on the characteristics of histological and ultrastructural findings. The peripheral blood sample also revealed MYO5B mutation. He had been on long-term parenteral nutrition. However, a bowel segment was seen in the baby's diaper during hospitalization when he was 5 months old. Serial abdominal ultrasound demonstrated progressive dissection of the bowel wall with detached mucosa in real-time. Small intestinal epithelia were seen on the histology of the detached bowel segment. He died 2 weeks after the episode; postmortem autopsy showed diffuse detachment of mucosa of small bowels without perforation. This is the first report of an infant with microvillus inclusion disease that presented with bowel "dissection". Weakened adhesion and integrity of intestinal epithelial cells caused by MYO5B mutation was speculated to result in the dissection and detachment of the epithelia of the gastrointestinal tract., (Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Cystic fibrosis can affect food digestion and nutrient absorption. The underlying mutation of the cystic fibrosis trans-membrane regulator gene depletes functional cystic fibrosis trans-membrane regulator on the surface of epithelial cells lining the digestive tract and associated organs, where Cl(-) secretion and subsequently secretion of water and other ions are impaired. This alters pH and dehydrates secretions that precipitate and obstruct the lumen, causing inflammation and the eventual degradation of the pancreas, liver, gallbladder and intestine. Associated conditions include exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, impaired bicarbonate and bile acid secretion and aberrant mucus formation, commonly leading to maldigestion and malabsorption, particularly of fat and fat-soluble vitamins. Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy is used to address this insufficiency. The susceptibility of pancreatic lipase to acidic and enzymatic inactivation and decreased bile availability often impedes its efficacy. Brush border digestive enzyme activity and intestinal uptake of certain disaccharides and amino acids await clarification. Other complications that may contribute to maldigestion/malabsorption include small intestine bacterial overgrowth, enteric circular muscle dysfunction, abnormal intestinal mucus, and intestinal inflammation. However, there is some evidence that gastric digestive enzymes, colonic microflora, correction of fatty acid abnormalities using dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation and emerging intestinal biomarkers can complement nutrition management in cystic fibrosis., (Copyright © 2014 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) refers to the clinical consequences resulting from loss of small bowel absorptive surface area due to surgical resection or bypass. The syndrome is characterized by maldigestion, malabsorption, and malnutrition. Survival of patients with SBS is dependent on adaptation in the remaining bowel and a combination of pharmacologic and nutrition therapies. Individual plans of care are developed based on the length and sites of remaining bowel, the degree of intestinal adaptation, and the patient's ability to adhere to the medication and dietary regimens. Antisecretory and antidiarrheal medications are prescribed to slow intestinal transit times and optimize fluid and nutrient absorption. Based on postsurgical anatomy, enteral feedings, parenteral infusions, complex diet plans, and vitamin and mineral supplementation are used in various combinations to nourish patients with SBS. In the acute care setting, registered dietitians (RDs) assist with infusion therapy, diet education, and discharge planning. Long-term, as the small intestine adapts, RDs revise the nutrition care plan and monitor for nutrient deficiencies, metabolic bone disease, and anemia. The frequent monitoring and revision of care plans, plus the appreciable benefits from proper medical nutrition therapy, make this patient population extremely challenging and rewarding for RDs to manage. This article provides a brief, case study-based overview of the medical and nutrition management of SBS., (Copyright © 2013 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Moderate/severe obesity is on the rise in the United States. Weight management includes bariatric surgery, which is effective and can alleviate morbidity and mortality from obesity-associated diseases. However, many individuals are dealing with nutritional complications. Risk factors include: 1) preoperative malnutrition (e.g., vitamin D, iron); 2) decreased food intake (due to reduced hunger and increased satiety, food intolerances, frequent vomiting); 3) inadequate nutrient supplementation (due to poor compliance with multivitamin/multimineral regimen, insufficient amounts of vitamins and/or minerals in supplements); 4) nutrient malabsorption; and 5) inadequate nutritional support (due to lack of follow-up, insufficient monitoring, difficulty in recognizing symptoms of deficiency). For some nutrients (e.g., protein, vitamin B-12, vitamin D), malnutrition issues are reasonably addressed through patient education, routine monitoring, and effective treatment strategies. However, there is little attention paid to other nutrients (e.g., zinc, copper), which if left untreated may have devastating consequences (e.g., hair loss, poor immunity, anemia, defects in neuro-muscular function). This review focuses on malnutrition in essential minerals, including calcium (and vitamin D), iron, zinc, and copper, which commonly occur following popular bariatric procedures. There will be emphasis on the complexities, including confounding factors, related to screening, recognition of symptoms, and, when available, current recommendations for treatment. There is an exceptionally high risk of malnutrition in adolescents and pregnant women and their fetuses, who may be vulnerable to problems in growth and development. More research is required to inform evidence-based recommendations for improving nutritional status following bariatric surgery and optimizing weight loss, metabolic, and nutritional outcomes.

Background: The study of faeces offers a unique opportunity to observe cooperation between the microbiome and the metabolism of mammalian hosts, an essential element in the study of the human metabolome. In the present study, a global metabolomics approach was used to identify metabolites differentially excreted in the faeces of cirrhotic patients compared to controls., Methods: Seventeen cirrhotic patients and 24 healthy individuals were recruited. Faecal metabolites were detected through non-targeted reversed-phase ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry., Results: A total of 9215 peaks were detected. Using unequal variance t-tests, 2393 peaks were observed with P≤0.05, approximately 74.0% of which were due to decreased faecal metabolite concentrations in liver cirrhosis vs. healthy controls. Integrating multivariate data analyses, we identified six major groups of metabolites. Relative levels of identified metabolites were as follows: strong increase in lysophosphatidylcholines, aromatic amino acids, fatty acids, and acylcarnitines, and a dramatic decrease in bile acids and bile pigments., Conclusion: With severe hepatic injury in patients with liver cirrhosis, malabsorption occurs along with disorders of fatty acid metabolism, potentially due to changes in gut microflora., (Copyright © 2013 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Fat malabsorption in pancreatic insufficient cystic fibrosis (CF) patients is classically treated with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT). Despite PERT, intestinal fat absorption remains insufficient in most CF patients. Several factors have been suggested to contribute to the persistent fat malabsorption in CF (CFPFM). We reviewed the current insights concerning the proposed causes of CFPFM and the corresponding intervention studies. Most data are obtained from studies in CF patients and CF mice. Based on the reviewed literature, we conclude that alterations in intestinal pH and intestinal mucosal abnormalities are most likely to contribute to CFPFM. The presently available data indicate that acid suppressive drugs and broad spectrum antibiotics could be helpful in individual CF patients for optimizing fat absorption and/or nutritional status., (Copyright © 2011 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) restricts food intake, and when the Roux limb is elongated to 150 cm, the procedure is believed to induce malabsorption., Objective: Our objective was to measure total reduction in intestinal absorption of combustible energy after RYGB and the extent to which this was due to restriction of food intake or malabsorption of ingested macronutrients., Design: Long-limb RYGB was performed in 9 severely obese patients. Dietary intake and intestinal absorption of fat, protein, carbohydrate, and combustible energy were measured before and at 2 intervals after bypass. By using coefficients of absorption to measure absorptive function, equations were developed to calculate the daily gram and kilocalorie quantities of ingested macronutrients that were not absorbed because of malabsorption or restricted food intake., Results: Coefficients of fat absorption were 92 ± 1.3% before bypass, 72 ± 5.5% 5 mo after bypass, and 68 ± 8.7% 14 mo after bypass. There were no statistically significant effects of RYGB on protein or carbohydrate absorption coefficients, although protein coefficients decreased substantially in some patients. Five months after bypass, malabsorption reduced absorption of combustible energy by 124 ± 57 kcal/d, whereas restriction of food intake reduced energy absorption by 2062 ± 271 kcal/d. Fourteen months after bypass, malabsorption reduced energy absorption by 172 ± 60 kcal/d compared with 1418 ± 171 kcal/d caused by restricted food intake., Conclusion: On average, malabsorption accounted for ≈6% and 11% of the total reduction in combustible energy absorption at 5 and 14 mo, respectively, after this gastric bypass procedure.

Background: EUR-1008 (Zenpep [pancrelipase]) is a new, enteric-coated, porcine-derived pancreatic enzyme product (PEP) developed for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with malabsorption associated with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). Unlike currently marketed PEPs, EUR-1008 contains the label-claimed lipase content. Safety and efficacy were assessed in younger (<7 years) and older (> or =7 years) CF patients with EPI., Methods: Two multicenter studies were conducted: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial in patients > or =7 years of age (N=34) and a supplemental, open-label study in children <7 years of age (N=19). Use of any medications altering gastric pH/motility was prohibited during the studies. Outcome measures in the randomized trial included changes in the coefficient of fat absorption (CFA), coefficient of nitrogen absorption (CNA), and signs/symptoms of malabsorption for EUR-1008 vs. placebo. Outcome measures in the supplemental study included safety and response (defined as no steatorrhea and no overt signs/symptoms of malabsorption) to EUR-1008 vs. previous enzyme treatment., Results: In the randomized trial, EUR-1008 treatment compared to placebo resulted in a significantly higher mean CFA (88.3% vs. 62.8%, respectively) and CNA (87.2% vs. 65.7%, respectively) (both p<0.001) and reduced the incidence of malabsorption signs and symptoms in 32 evaluable patients. In the supplemental study, 11 of 19 patients met the criteria for responder with EUR-1008 at the end of the study vs. 10 of 19 patients at screening (previous PEP), and improvements in clinical symptoms were reported with EUR-1008 treatment. EUR-1008 was safe and well tolerated, and no serious drug-related AEs were reported in either study., Conclusions: EUR-1008 was safe, well tolerated, and effective in CF patients of all ages with EPI-associated malabsorption in two clinical trials. Treatment led to clinically and statistically significant improvements in CFA and CNA in the randomized study, and control of malabsorption and clinical symptoms in both studies.

Background: Malabsorption syndrome often develops in patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). Why structural damages appear in some CVID patients and not in others is not fully understood. Memory B cells (MBs) are responsible for the production of specific antibodies, and their defects have previously been related to autoimmune, granulomatous, and lymphoproliferative complications of CVID. The objective of this study was to ascertain whether a relationship exists between MB defects and the clinical outcome of respiratory and intestinal involvement in these patients., Methods: Forty-one CVID patients were grouped as follows, according to the quantification of peripheral MBs: the MB2 group (n = 7) included patients with normal MBs; the MB1 group (n = 16) included patients with low switched MBs; and the MB0 group (n = 18) included patients with absent/low MBs. The clinical outcome of respiratory and intestinal involvement of patients was then compared among the three groups., Results: In the MB0 group, chronic lung disease (ie, bronchiectasis and diminished FVC and/or FEV1) developed in 50% of patients vs 13% in the MB1 group and 0% in the MB2 group (p < 0.05). In the MB0 group, malabsorption syndrome or chronic noninfectious diarrhea developed in 50% of patients vs 19% in the MB1 group and 0% in the MB2 group (p < 0.05). No differences were found among the three groups for age at onset of symptoms, delay in diagnosis/treatment, months of follow-up/treatment, and prediagnostic serum IgG concentration., Conclusions: Alterations in MB count appear to be associated with a severe clinical outcome of respiratory and intestinal involvement in CVID. The MB count could be a useful laboratory parameter for orienting the prognosis and management of CVID patients.

Significant deficiencies of both fat- and water-soluble vitamins have been reported to occur after malabsorptive bariatric surgery. However, despite the potential for neurologic manifestations of such deficiencies, few cases of central neurologic dysfunction have been reported. Our group previously reported reversible neurologic dysfunction as an unusual manifestation of vitamin deficiency in a postjejunoileostomy patient. We report on a second case of reversible neurologic dysfunction associated with severe, prolonged vitamin deficiency many years after jejunoileostomy. Neurologic function returned to normal with vitamin repletion. Patients who have undergone malabsorptive surgery are at risk of late metabolic complications and should be closely monitored.

Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for patients with clinically severe obesity. In addition to significant weight loss, it is also associated with improvements in comorbidities. Unfortunately, bariatric surgery also has the potential to cause a variety of nutritional and metabolic complications. These complications are mostly due to the extensive surgically induced anatomical changes incurred by the patient's gastrointestinal tract, particularly with roux-en-Y gastric bypass and biliopancreatic diversion. Complications associated with vertical banded gastroplasty are mostly due to decreased intake amounts of specific nutrients. Macronutrient deficiencies can include severe protein-calorie malnutrition and fat malabsorption. The most common micronutrient deficiencies are of vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D. Other micronutrient deficiencies that can lead to serious complications include thiamine, folate, and the fat-soluble vitamins. Counseling, monitoring, and nutrient and mineral supplementation are essential for the treatment and prevention of nutritional and metabolic complications after bariatric surgery.

Adverse reactions to foods, aside from those considered toxic, are caused by a particular individual intolerance towards commonly tolerated foods. Intolerance derived from an immunological mechanism is referred to as Food Allergy, the non-immunological form is called Food Intolerance. IgE-mediated food allergy is the most common and dangerous type of adverse food reaction. It is initiated by an impairment of normal Oral Tolerance to food in predisposed individuals (atopic). Food allergy produces respiratory, gastrointestinal, cutaneous and cardiovascular symptoms but often generalized, life-threatening symptoms manifest at a rapid rate-anaphylactic shock. Diagnosis is made using medical history and cutaneous and serological tests but to obtain final confirmation a Double Blind Controlled Food Challenge must be performed. Food intolerances are principally caused by enzymatic defects in the digestive system, as is the case with lactose intolerance, but may also result from pharmacological effects of vasoactive amines present in foods (e.g. Histamine). Prevention and treatment are based on the avoidance of the culprit food.

Objective: Fructose intake has increased considerably in the United States, primarily as a result of increased consumption of high-fructose corn syrup, fruits and juices, and crystalline fructose. The purpose was to determine how often fructose, in amounts commonly consumed, would result in malabsorption and/or symptoms in healthy persons., Design: Fructose absorption was measured using 3-hour breath hydrogen tests and symptom scores were used to rate subjective responses for gas, borborygmus, abdominal pain, and loose stools., Subjects/setting: The study included 15 normal, free-living volunteers from a medical center community and was performed in a gastrointestinal specialty clinic., Intervention: Subjects consumed 25- and 50-g doses of crystalline fructose with water after an overnight fast on separate test days., Main Outcome Measures: Mean peak breath hydrogen, time of peak, area under the curve (AUC) for breath hydrogen and gastrointestinal symptoms were measured during a 3-hour period after subjects consumed both 25- and 50-g doses of fructose., Statistical Analyses: Differences in mean breath hydrogen, AUC, and symptom scores between doses were analyzed using paired t tests. Correlations among peak breath hydrogen, AUC, and symptoms were also evaluated., Results: More than half of the 15 adults tested showed evidence of fructose malabsorption after 25 g fructose and greater than two thirds showed malabsorption after 50 g fructose. AUC, representing overall breath hydrogen response, was significantly greater after the 50-g dose. Overall symptom scores were significantly greater than baseline after each dose, but scores were only marginally greater after 50 g than 25 g. Peak hydrogen levels and AUC were highly correlated, but neither was significantly related to symptoms., Conclusions: Fructose, in amounts commonly consumed, may result in mild gastrointestinal distress in normal people. Additional study is warranted to evaluate the response to fructose-glucose mixtures (as in high-fructose corn syrup) and fructose taken with food in both normal people and those with gastrointestinal dysfunction. Because breath hydrogen peaks occurred at 90 to 114 minutes and were highly correlated with 180-minute breath hydrogen AUC, the use of peak hydrogen measures may be considered to shorten the duration of the exam.

Background: Cardiovascular and metabolic comorbidities are dramatically increased in severe obesity, a condition highly resistant to nonsurgical therapy., Objective: The objective was to identify predictors of weight loss and reversal of comorbidity in obese patients undergoing malabsorptive bariatric surgery., Design: Morbidly obese men and women (n = 107) were studied before and 2 y after biliopancreatic diversion (BPD). Body composition, serum lipid profile, oral glucose tolerance, and blood pressure were measured. Insulin sensitivity was determined by use of a euglycemic clamp. The length of the small intestine was measured during surgery., Results: Intestinal length was 671 +/- 99 cm, and the residual absorbing intestine after BPD ranged from 54% to 24% of initial length. Patients lost an average of 36% of their initial weight, with approximately 50% of them reaching a body mass index (in kg/m(2)) < 30. Serum cholesterol decreased (from 4.58 +/- 1.11 to 3.34 +/- 0.73 mmol/L; P < 0.0001), as did serum triacylglycerols (from 1.52 +/- 0.59 to 0.88 +/- 0.35 mmol/L; P < 0.0001), whereas insulin sensitivity rose 150% (from 26 +/- 4 to 64 +/- 11 micromol . min(-1) . kg fat-free mass(-1); P < 0.0001). Diabetes (in 23% of patients before surgery) and hypertension (in 83%) were reduced (by 88% and 96%, respectively) after surgery. In a multivariate model (including sex, age, intestinal length, presence of diabetes, insulin sensitivity, and initial fat mass), age and diabetes were independent, negative predictors of weight loss, whereas initial fat mass was a strong positive predictor (r(2) = 0.51)., Conclusions: Two years after BPD in morbidly obese patients, comorbidities are largely corrected and insulin resistance is fully reversed despite persistent obesity. Initial fat mass, but not residual intestinal length, is the strongest predictor of weight loss after BPD.

Purpose: To report the ocular complications of xerophthalmia, nyctalopia, and visual deterioration to legal blindness as a result of inadequate vitamin A supplementation after malabsorptive bariatric surgery., Design: Observational case report and literature review., Participant: A 39-year-old woman with xerophthalmia and nyctalopia occurring 3 years after gastric bypass surgery., Results: We report a patient with a rare finding of xerophthalmia and visual deterioration after gastric bypass surgery as a result of vitamin A deficiency. The patient was referred for decreased vision associated with chronic dry eyes, bilateral diffuse punctate keratitis, and corneal scarring of unknown cause after several ophthalmologic examinations. The medical history, ophthalmic findings, and clinical course are discussed., Conclusions: Gastric bypass procedures can cause vitamin A deficiency leading to serious ocular complications, including xerophthalmia, nyctalopia, and ultimate blindness. The increasing incidence of obesity and gastric bypass procedures warrants patient and physician education regarding strict adherence to vitamin supplementation. Education is imperative to avoid detrimental ophthalmic complications resulting from hypovitaminosis A and to prevent a potential epidemic of iatrogenic xerophthalmia and blindness.

In France, indications for bariatric surgery are clearly defined in the recommendations issued by ANAES and medical societies. The number of surgical procedures performed in France, is currently estimated to be 10 to 12.000 per year, with a regular increase of the gastric banding technique, which represents now more than 75% of the procedures. This review presents the main surgical procedures, and particularly, insists on their post-operative complications and their prevention, diagnosis and management.

Background & Aims: Some patients with cystic fibrosis continue to have excessive losses of stool lipid, despite the use of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy to improve digestion. The aim of this study was to explore the residual capacity of the gastrointestinal tract to digest and absorb dietary lipid using stable isotopic methodology in ten patients with cystic fibrosis who were gastrostomy fed in comparison to eight healthy children. We sought to test the hypothesis that a reduction in the availability of dietary lipid may arise from malabsorption of the products of digestion, rather than maldigestion alone., Methods: All subjects consumed [1,1,1-(13)C] tripalmitin (10mg/kg body weight) with a standardised meal but the patients with cystic fibrosis did not take their habitual pancreatic enzymes. Total enrichment of (13)C was measured by isotope ratio mass spectrometry in stools collected over 3 days. Maldigestion and malabsorption was differentiated by measuring (13)C-label excretion in stool triglyceride and fatty acid fractions, respectively., Results: The patients with cystic fibrosis had elevated (13)C-label losses in total stools (56.7%, 6.8-77.9%)(median and range; % administered dose), triglyceride (6.6%, 0-31.2%) and fatty acid (16.7%, 3.4-50.3%) fractions compared to healthy children (1.9%, 0-10.9%, P<0.001; triglyceride: 0.2%, 0-0.6%, p<0.01; fatty acid 0.9%, 0-6.5%, P<0.001)., Conclusions: These results highlight differences between gastrostomy fed patients with cystic fibrosis to both digest and absorb dietary lipid. There is a need to extend these observations and apply this approach to patients both with and without pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy.

Background: A relation between food-cobalamin malabsorption and pernicious anemia has been suggested, particularly in the event of food-cobalamin malabsorption related to hypochlorhydric atrophic gastritis., Study Design: This work describes three cases of well-documented cobalamin deficiency related to food-cobalamin malabsorption in three women aged 56, 82 and 68 Years who had atrophic gastritis (not associated with Helicobacter pylori infection) and later developed authentic pernicious anemia., Conclusions: This work illustrates the potential relation between these two disorders responsible for cobalamin deficiency.

Alcoholic pancreatitis is a major complication of alcohol abuse. Until recently, it was generally accepted that alcoholic pancreatitis was a chronic disease from the outset. However, evidence is now emerging in support of the 'necrosis-fibrosis' hypothesis that alcoholic pancreatitis begins as an acute process and that repeated episodes of acute injury lead to the changes of chronic pancreatitis (acinar atrophy and fibrosis) resulting in exocrine and endocrine dysfunction. The treatment of acute pancreatitis follows the regimen of bed rest, nasogastric suction, analgesia and intravenous support. The role of additional therapeutic measures such as prophylactic antibiotics, antioxidants and enteral nutrition in severe cases has not yet been precisely defined. The treatment of chronic pancreatitis involves attention to its three cardinal features: pain, maldigestion and diabetes. With respect to the pathogenesis of alcoholic pancreatitis, the focus of research over the past 30 years has shifted from the sphincter of Oddi and ductular abnormalities to the acinar cell itself. It has now been established that the acinar cell is capable of metabolizing alcohol and that direct toxic effects of alcohol and/or its metabolites on acinar cells may predispose the gland to injury in the presence of an appropriate trigger factor. A significant recent development relates to the characterization of pancreatic stellate cells, increasingly implicated in alcoholic pancreatic fibrosis. This chapter summarizes the natural history, clinical features, current trends in treatment as well as recent advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis of alcoholic pancreatitis.

Background: Biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) has been advocated for the treatment of morbid obesity. This procedure has the theoretical advantage that patients retain normal eating capacity and lose weight irrespective of their eating habits. However, vitamin deficiencies may develop because BPD causes malabsorption., Objective: This report describes a 40-y-old mother and her newborn infant, who developed vitamin A deficiency as a result of iatrogenic maternal malabsorption after BPD. Our primary objective is to show that BPD patients need close follow-up and lifelong micronutrient supplementation to prevent nutrient deficiencies in themselves and their offspring., Design: The medical records of the mother and infant were reviewed, and their clinical course was followed until 10 mo postpartum. The mother was also interviewed on several occasions about her medical care, follow-up, and supplemental vitamin use., Results: The mother developed night blindness with undetectable serum vitamin A concentrations in the third trimester of her pregnancy. Her vitamin A deficiency was untreated until she delivered her infant. At delivery, the infant also had vitamin A deficiency. He may have permanent retinal damage, but this is still unclear because the ophthalmologic examination performed at 2 mo of age was inconclusive., Conclusions: Complications of BPD may take many years to develop, and the signs and symptoms may be subtle. Because of the malabsorption that results from BPD, patients need lifelong follow-up and appropriate vitamin supplementation to prevent deficiencies. These nutrient deficiencies can also affect the offspring of female BPD patients.

Diarrhoea and malabsorption are common problems in elderly persons. Worldwide, diarrhoea is the second leading cause of mortality. In the developed world, 85% of its mortality affects the elderly. The diagnostic work up for diarrhoea and malabsorption is more complex for the elderly than for the young patient. If diarrhoea persists for more than 24 h, oral rehydration solutions or intravenous fluids must be administered promptly in order to prevent hypotension and organ failure in the often multi-morbid patient. Both the immunocompromised patient and the severely affected out-patient should have stool culture performed. Malabsorption usually presents with weight loss, osteoporosis, anaemia, skin and neurological symptoms. The careful diagnostic work-up must aim at the identification of treatable disorders such as coeliac disease, Crohn's disease and bacterial overgrowth. Often, a detailed drug history is of help in identifying a readily treatable cause.

Introduction: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome (SIBOS) has various clinical and biological presentations. Six observations are described in this review which is aimed at reporting recent data on SIBOS and proposing diagnosis and therapeutic attitudes., Current Knowledge and Key Points: Chronic diarrhea, malabsorption syndrome and exsudative enteropathy are the main criteria of diagnosis. Breath hydrogen testing is commonly performed to confirm diagnosis, with a 78% sensitivity and a 89% specificity. The aim of therapy is reparation of malabsorption consequences, reduction of intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and surgical correction of intestinal stasis. In the absence of consensus, norfloxacin or amoxicillin-clavulinic acid (administered for a mean of 7 to 15 days) seem the more appropriate antibiotics. When possible, surgery represents the primary treatment of SIBOS recurrences., Future Prospects and Projects: Diagnosis of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome must be evoked on the basis of either surgical or medical context, i.e., the existence of chronic diarrhea, malabsorption syndrome (complete or not), and exsudative enteropathy. This review reports essential factors for diagnosis and treatment.

Introduction: Though impairment of the gastrointestinal tract is commonly encountered in patients with systemic sclerosis, the most frequent abnormalities are esophageal and anorectal disorders. Involvement of the small intestine is also common, reaching a 40-80% prevalence. It often leads to life-threatening complications., Current Knowledge and Key Points: The occurrence of small intestine impairment and its potential relationships with other organ impairment is still unknown. However, it rarely indicates the existence of the disease (10%) which remains asymptomatic for a long period. As clinical symptoms are non-specific and radiological tests (upper intestinal tract barium meal, gastrointestinal transit times of radiolabeled meal, computerized tomography scan) not sensitive enough to detect the symptoms, diagnosis of small intestine impairment is delayed, i.e., when severe complications such as malabsorption or pseudo-obstruction are present. The physiopathology of small intestine disorders is still unclear, leading to both collagenous fibrosis and atrophy of muscle fibers. As well, its treatment is difficult., Future Prospects and Projects: Knowledge of the mechanisms at the origin of small intestine impairment in the course of systemic sclerosis is important for the development of efficacious therapies. Manometry of the small intestine would be a useful tool to assess the various motor abnormalities that may occur in patients presenting with systemic sclerosis associated with either malabsorption or pseudo-obstruction. It would also provide a useful test in selecting patients whose treatment require somatostatin analogs.

Pancreatic and biliary carcinomas remain a challenge to clinicians and investigators, as diagnosis is rarely achieved while the tumor is still in a curative stage. Clinical symptoms and signs of these neoplasias are non-specific and heterogeneous. We review the clinical presentation of these tumors, with an emphasis on their pathophysiology and relationship with survival. Abdominal pain is the most common presenting complaint in pancreatic and biliary tract carcinomas, regardless of their size; although severe back pain usually indicates neural compromise, and is associated with a short survival. Jaundice may also be an early sign, in fact, pancreatic tumors that present as painless jaundice have been ascribed, a relatively more favorable prognosis. Weight loss is a common finding in most patients, being usually associated with malabsorption. These neoplasias may also present as diabetes, as an acute pancreatitis episode, with venous thrombosis or malignant thrombophlebitis, as a gastrointestinal hemorrhage, with mental disturbances, or skin manifestations.

Low cobalamin concentrations are common in the elderly. Although only a minority of such persons display clinically obvious symptoms or signs, metabolic data clearly show cellular deficiency of cobalamin in most cases. The evidence suggests that this is not a normal physiologic expression of the aging process. Rather, the elderly seem at increased risk for mild, preclinical cobalamin deficiency. Classical disorders such as pernicious anemia are the cause of this deficiency in only a small proportion of the elderly. A more frequent problem is food-cobalamin malabsorption, which usually arises from atrophic gastritis and hypochlorhydria but other mechanisms seem to be involved in some patients. The diminished absorption should not be viewed as a natural consequence of aging. The partial nature of this form of malabsorption produces a more slowly progressive depletion of cobalamin than does the more complete malabsorption engendered by disruption of intrinsic factor-mediated absorption. The slower progression of depletion probably explains why mild, preclinical deficiency is associated with food-cobalamin malabsorption more often than with pernicious anemia. Decisions about the optimal management of the very common problem of mild, preclinical cobalamin deficiency in the elderly await further clarification of the processes and the complex issues involved, including the possibility that routine nitrous oxide use during surgery, proposed dietary changes, and other practices may further stress the marginal cobalamin status of many elderly people.

The ability of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients to tolerate dairy products and the guidance they receive from physicians and nutritionists on this subject are important considerations in the management of their IBD. Although most affected persons are able to consume a glass of milk daily without discomfort, additional consideration must be given to specific factors that can be relevant to certain individuals. The declaration by patients that they are "dairy sensitive" may be related to lactose intolerance or malabsorption, the long-chain triacylglycerol content of milk, allergy to milk proteins, as well as psychologic factors and the misconception that dairy products can be detrimental to their health. The prevalence of lactose malabsorption is significantly greater in patients with Crohn disease involving the small bowel than it is in patients with Crohn disease involving the colon or ulcerative colitis. In the latter colonic conditions the prevalence of lactose malabsorption is mainly determined by ethnic risk, which is based on genetic factors. In addition, lactose malabsorption in Crohn disease of the small bowel may be determined by factors other than lactase enzyme activity, such as bacterial overgrowth and/or small bowel transit time. Physicians differ widely in the advice they give their patients: some dogmatically advise avoidance of dairy products when the diagnosis is made whereas others discount the possible role of dairy in the management of IBD. IBD patients avoid dairy products more than they would need to based on the prevalence of lactose malabsorption and/or milk intolerance, probably partly because of incorrect patient perceptions and arbitrary advice from physicians and authors of popular diet books. Adequate scientific and clinical information is now available to permit recommendations about the intake of dairy products for each IBD patient.