What does steatorrhea mean?
Steatorrhea refers to a medical condition where there is an abnormal amount of fat present in the stool. This condition often arises due to issues with fat digestion and absorption, commonly seen in diseases affecting the pancreas, such as chronic pancreatitis, or conditions like celiac disease. The presence of steatorrhea can lead to various health complications if not properly managed, including malnutrition and deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins. Diagnosis typically involves stool tests to measure fat content, and treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, which may include dietary changes, enzyme supplements, or management of the primary disease.
nounSteatorrhea is a medical condition characterized by the presence of excess fat in the stool, often resulting from malabsorption or pancreatic insufficiency.
- A medical condition involving excess fat in stool
- A symptom of malabsorption or pancreatic disease
"The patient was diagnosed with steatorrhea due to chronic pancreatitis, which led to impaired digestion and absorption of fats."
"The patient's steatorrhea was a symptom of their underlying celiac disease."
"Steatorrhea can be a side effect of certain medications, such as orlistat."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of steatorrhea
The term 'steatorrhea' originates from the Greek words 'steato-', meaning fat, and 'rrhea', meaning discharge or flow. This etymology reflects the condition's characteristic of having a fatty discharge in the stool.
Usage notes
This term is primarily used in medical and clinical contexts.