Intestinal lymphangiectasia is a rare disorder in which the lymph vessels in the lining of the small intestine become dilated or blocked. As a result, fats and proteins that should be absorbed into the bloodstream leak into the intestinal tract instead. This leads to low blood protein levels, fat malabsorption, and swelling in various parts of the body. It can be primary (congenital) or secondary to other conditions, and it affects both children and adults.
Symptoms of intestinal lymphangiectasia vary from mild to severe and may include:
The underlying cause depends on whether lymphangiectasia is primary or secondary:
At GastroDoxs in Houston, our compassionate, multidisciplinary team specializes in the diagnosis and management of intestinal lymphangiectasia. We combine advanced testing, customized nutrition plans, and ongoing follow-up to help you control symptoms and improve your quality of life. Ready to take the next step? Call us at 832-632-4070 or book your appointment online> today.
We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Doctors diagnose Intestinal Lymphangiectasia using blood tests (to check protein and lymphocyte levels), stool tests (to detect fat malabsorption), imaging studies (such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI), and endoscopy with biopsy to examine the intestinal lymph vessels directly.
Yes. While Intestinal Lymphangiectasia is more common in children, adults can develop it, especially when it occurs secondary to other conditions like inflammation, infection, heart failure, or tumors.
Flare-ups often follow high-fat meals that overload malformed lymph vessels, infections, surgery, or changes in medications that affect lymphatic flow or intestinal health.
With early detection and proper management-dietary modifications, supplements, and medical therapy-most people with Intestinal Lymphangiectasia live normal lives without a significant impact on life expectancy.
The ICD-10 code for Intestinal Lymphangiectasia is K90.89, classified under other malabsorption due to intolerance, not elsewhere classified.
Surgery is rarely required. It may be considered if a localized lymphatic obstruction can be corrected or removed, but most patients respond well to dietary and medical therapies.
Regular follow-up with a gastroenterologist is recommended every 3 to 6 months, or more frequently if symptoms change or lab values indicate worsening protein loss or malabsorption.
Yes. A low-fat, high-protein diet supplemented with medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil is the cornerstone of management. Vitamin supplements (A, D, E, K) and minerals may also be needed to address deficiencies.
Some children experience improvement or remission as their lymphatic system matures, but others require ongoing dietary management and medical follow-up into adulthood.
Contact GastroDoxs in Houston for expert evaluation and personalized treatment plans. You can call our office or schedule an appointment online to connect with a gastroenterologist experienced in rare digestive disorders.
