Malabsorption of essential amino acids in tropical sprue
Klipstein, F.A.; Corcino, J.J.
Gastroenterology 68(2): 239-244
1975
ISSN/ISBN: 0016-5085 PMID: 1116672 Document Number: 94185
Absorption of 7 amino acids from an equimolar mixture of each of the 8 essential amino acids in a concentration of 20 mmol was evaluated with a marker perfusion technique in 9 patients with untreated tropical sprue and in 6 healthy Puerto Rican controls. Rate of absorption of from 2 to 6 of the amino acids tested was lower in 7 patients than in controls. Absorption of isoleucine, leucine, valine and threonine was significantly lower in patients than in controls. When 4 patients were given tetracycline by mouth for 2 weeks absorption of amino acids returned to normal in the 3 who had improved intestinal function; the fourth patient required longer treatment.