Lipid related consequences of intestinal malabsorption.

The small intestine plays a key role in lipid metabolism by absorbing fat and synthesising apoproteins. Fat malabsorption secondary to intestinal disease results in abnormalities of lipoprotein concentration and composition and can lead to deficiency of essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. Malabsorption of fat can be induced by administration of neomycin and malabsorption of bile acids by administration of anion-exchange resins or by creating a partial ileal bypass. These induced forms of malabsorption are useful in the treatment of hyperlipidaemic patients liable to atherosclerosis.