A 45-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 1-year history of episodic abdominal cramps, bloating, and flatulence. The symptoms worsen when she has pizza or ice cream and have become more frequent over the past 4 months. There is no associated weight loss, abnormal bleeding, or joint pain. Past medical history is otherwise unremarkable, though the patient has not seen a physician for many years. Vital signs and physical examination are normal. Laboratory studies show normal hemoglobin, iron, and vitamin D levels. A biopsy sample of this patient's small bowel mucosa would most likely show which of the following?

Question

A 45-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 1-year history of episodic abdominal cramps, bloating, and flatulence. The symptoms worsen when she has pizza or ice cream and have become more frequent over the past 4 months. There is no associated weight loss, abnormal bleeding, or joint pain.  Past medical history is otherwise unremarkable, though the patient has not seen a physician for many years.  Vital signs and physical examination are normal.  Laboratory studies show normal hemoglobin, iron, and vitamin D levels.  A biopsy sample of this patient's small bowel mucosa would most likely show which of the following?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Patients with lactose intolerance are deficient in lactase, permitting osmotically active lactose to pass undigested to the large bowel. Biopsy shows normal histological findings, but samples will also show decreased activity of lactase.

A 45-Year-Old Woman Comes to the Physician Because of a 1-Year