Paediatric Imaging

Disaccharidase deficiency

deficiency of one of the enzymes (usually lactase, maltase or sucrase), responsible for carbohydrate absorption. This causes intolerance to foodstuffs containing these substances and leads to symptoms of diarrhoea, abdominal distension and cramp. The diagnosis is by enzyme assay of the intestinal juices. Lactase deficiency causes intolerance to milk and dairy products. Radiologically there may be dilated fluid filled bowel loops. See malabsorption syndrome

HC