CONTROL OF MALABSORPTION IN SCLERODERMA

[摘要] Control of malabsorption with antibiotics in a patient with scleroderma (acrosclerosis) having gastrointestinal involvement is reported. Malabsorption was demonstrated by measurement of abnormally increased 72 hr. stool fat excretion, diminished D-xylose, and vitamin B12 absorptions. Treatment with antibiotics terminated symptoms are malabsorption of fat, D-xylose and vitamin B12. There was an increase in appetite with a 25 lb. weight gain, correction of longstanding anemia, and reduction in abdominal distention and pain. The rationale for antibiotic therapy is based on the hypothesis that there is in scleroderma intraluminal stagnation due to abnormal peristalsis and concomitant bacterial overgrowth of the involved intestine leading to malabsorption.