K90: Intestinal malabsorption

K90.3: Pancreatic steatorrhoea

The intestines are made up of the small intestine and the large intestine or colon. Most of the nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine. The large intestine (colon) is where water and salt are withdrawn from the stool. The last segment of the large intestine (colon) is the rectum. Stool then leaves the body through the anus.

The pancreas is tucked behind the stomach in the upper abdomen. The pancreas produces messenger substances. The messenger substances control the sugar level in the blood. The pancreas also produces a fluid that is released into the intestines. This fluid contains substances that are important for the digestion of fats, proteins and sugars. Your pancreas is not working properly. If the pancreas is not working properly, the intestines can no longer absorb nutrients so well. Your bowel movements may change. The feces may then have a fatty sheen. You may also lose weight.