INTESTINAL LIPODYSTROPHY Meaning and
Definition
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Intestinal lipodystrophy, also known as enteric lipodystrophy or intestinal lymphangiectasia, is a rare medical condition characterized by abnormalities in fat absorption and accumulation in the intestines. This disorder primarily affects the small intestines and the lymphatic system, leading to impaired digestion and reduced transportation of fats, fatty acids, and lymph fluid throughout the body.
Individuals with intestinal lipodystrophy may experience various symptoms, including chronic diarrhea, excessive fat excretion in the stool (steatorrhea), abdominal pain, anemia, weight loss, and malnutrition. These symptoms occur as a result of the inadequate breakdown and absorption of dietary fats, leading to nutrient deficiencies and an inability to properly utilize lipids for energy.
The underlying cause of intestinal lipodystrophy is not fully understood, but it may arise from genetic mutations, immune system dysfunction, or damage to the lymphatic vessels. It can be either primary, inherited from birth, or secondary, resulting from other conditions such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or infections. Intestinal lipodystrophy is typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests, stool analysis, imaging studies, and intestinal biopsies.
Treatment for intestinal lipodystrophy focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. This often involves dietary modifications such as a low-fat and high-protein diet, vitamin and mineral supplementation, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil supplementation, and possibly the use of medications to reduce inflammation or control diarrhea. In severe cases, intravenous nutrient supplementation or surgical interventions may be necessary to restore proper nutrition and manage complications associated with malabsorption. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure adequate nutrient absorption and overall health in individuals with intestinal lipodystrophy.
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A disease marked by multiple arthritis, diarrhea (the stools consisting chiefly of fats and fatty acids), and loss of weight and strength; characterized anatomically by deposits of fat and fatty acids in the intestinal and mesenteric lymphatic tissue.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for INTESTINAL LIPODYSTROPHY
- untestinal lipodystrophy
- jntestinal lipodystrophy
- kntestinal lipodystrophy
- ontestinal lipodystrophy
- 9ntestinal lipodystrophy
- 8ntestinal lipodystrophy
- ibtestinal lipodystrophy
- imtestinal lipodystrophy
- ijtestinal lipodystrophy
- ihtestinal lipodystrophy
- inrestinal lipodystrophy
- infestinal lipodystrophy
- ingestinal lipodystrophy
- inyestinal lipodystrophy
- in6estinal lipodystrophy
- in5estinal lipodystrophy
- intwstinal lipodystrophy
- intsstinal lipodystrophy
- intdstinal lipodystrophy
- intrstinal lipodystrophy
Etymology of INTESTINAL LIPODYSTROPHY
The word "intestinal" comes from the Latin word "intestinum", which means "intestine" or "gut". "Lipodystrophy" is derived from the Greek words "lipos", meaning "fat", and "dystrophy", meaning "impaired growth" or "abnormal development".
So, "intestinal lipodystrophy" is a medical term that combines "intestinal", referring to the intestines, and "lipodystrophy", which signifies abnormal fat development.
