A patient with Crohn's disease complains of extreme muscle weakness, fatigue, diarrhea, bruising, 10-pound weight loss over the last few weeks, and dyspnea on exertion. On physical examination, the patient is afebrile, pulse 110 beats/min, respirations 20 breaths/min, and blood pressure 100/50. Body mass index is 15. The patient is pale and frail looking, with bilateral ankle edema and bruises noted on cachectic thighs. Which of the following diagnostic tests is most helpful in the diagnosis of intestinal malabsorption?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stool for fat is the most helpful diagnostic test in this scenario to diagnose intestinal malabsorption, as it directly assesses the malabsorption of fat, a common consequence of conditions like Crohn's disease affecting the intestine's ability to absorb nutrients.

A Patient with Crohn's Disease Complains of Extreme Muscle Weakness