Studies on small intestinal mucosal morphology lactase activity and lactose hydrolysis rate in childhood with diarrhea.

Small intestinal mucosal morphology, lactase activity and lactose hydrolysis were examined by peroral intestinal biopsy and intraluminal perfusion of the small intestine in 28 patients with acute and chronic diarrhea. This study shows that lactase deficiency and mucosal damage are more common in childhood diarrhea, and there are positive correlations among intestinal morphology, lactase activity and lactose hydrolysis. A small bowel biopsy is useful both in establishing the diagnosis and guiding dietary treatment for infants with chronic diarrhea. The pathophysiologic mechanism of diarrhea is also discussed.