ABSORPTIVE DEFECTS IN YOUNG PEOPLE WITH REGIONAL ENTERITIS

[摘要] Eleven patients with Crohn's disease between 8 and 21 years of age were evaluated to document the incidence and severity of correctable nutritional deficiencies in young people with this disorder. Studies included common hematological and electrolyte determinations, complete gastrointestinal barium studies, assessment of d-xylose, vitamin B12 and fat absorption, and quantification of intestinal protein loss. A variety of abnormalities was found. Subnormal weight, diffuse disease radiologically, anemia, low serum iron, and excessive protein loss occurred in eight patients. Vitamin B12 malabsorption and hypoproteinemia occurred in six, and steatorrhea and hypocalcemia were detected less often. The frequent occurrence of these abnormalities warrants careful monitoring of children with Crohn's disease for absorptive defects which are amenable to corrective or palliative treatment.

[学科分类] 儿科学