Two common reasons of malabsorption syndromes: celiac disease and Whipple's disease.

Malabsorption syndromes are commonly caused by pathological interferences of normal digestive processes. In the last several years major advances in the diagnosis and treatment of these syndromes has emerged. This review will focus on diseases in which the mucosal phase of the digestive process is predominately disturbed, including celiac disease and Whipple's disease. Since most diagnostic tests have a limited availability, it will also provide a diagnostic algorithm of malabsorption syndromes. 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel