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Intestinal Lymphangiectasia

Intestinal lymphangiectasia is a gut condition causing swollen lymph vessels that leak protein and fat. Early recognition of symptoms such as swelling, diarrhea, and fatigue enables effective management. In Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri provides expert diagnosis, tailored nutrition, advanced treatments.

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Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. 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.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Primary (congenital) malformation of intestinal lymphatic vessels
  • Secondary injury to lymphatics from infections, surgery or inflammation
  • Underlying heart disease (e.g., congenital heart defects, congestive failure)
  • Liver disorders such as cirrhosis
  • Autoimmune conditions affecting lymphatic flow
  • Family history of lymphatic or vascular malformations
  • Tumors, radiation or other processes that obstruct lymph drainage

Signs and Symptoms

  • Swelling (edema) in the legs, feet or face
  • Chronic, often greasy or bulky stools (steatorrhea)
  • Persistent diarrhea
  • Unintended weight loss
  • General fatigue or muscle weakness
  • Abdominal bloating, pain or discomfort
  • Increased frequency of infections due to loss of immune cells

Expert Treatment for Intestinal Lymphangiectasia by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your symptoms-swelling, diarrhea, greasy stools, weight loss, fatigue and any epigastric discomfort-as well as family history of lymphatic or autoimmune disorders. A targeted exam assesses edema in the legs, face and abdomen.

Blood Tests

We measure serum albumin and total protein to detect protein loss, lymphocyte count to gauge immune cell depletion, and electrolyte panels to identify imbalances.

Stool Studies

Quantitative fecal fat testing confirms malabsorption. Stool elastase or other markers help rule out pancreatic insufficiency.

Imaging Studies

  • MRI Enterography-visualizes dilated intestinal lymphatics, bowel wall thickening and mesenteric edema.
  • Ultrasound-detects ascites and can suggest lymphatic duct dilation.

Endoscopy with Biopsy

An upper GI endoscopy allows direct inspection of the duodenum and jejunum. Tiny biopsy samples are taken to confirm lymphangiectasia and exclude other causes of epigastric pain or malabsorption.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for intestinal lymphangiectasia.

1. Diet and Nutrition Management

  • Low-fat diet enriched with medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil)
  • High-protein meal plans to replace lost proteins
  • Smaller, more frequent meals to improve absorption
  • Customized vitamin and mineral supplementation

2. Medications

  • Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup
  • Periodic protein (albumin) infusions to correct hypoalbuminemia
  • Anti-inflammatory agents in select cases
  • Supportive vitamins (A, D, E, K) and minerals

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic lymphatic embolization to seal leaking vessels
  • Laparoscopic interventions to block or remove damaged lymphatics
  • Targeted surgical resection of affected intestinal segments (when necessary)
1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this condition confirmed?

Doctors use blood and stool tests to check protein and fat loss, imaging (MRI or ultrasound) to visualize swollen lymphatics, and endoscopy with biopsy when needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Can food changes help?

Yes. A low-fat, high-protein diet supplemented with MCT oil can significantly reduce symptoms, and many patients feel better within weeks of starting dietary changes.

Is it a lifelong condition?

It depends. Some people respond well to treatment and may see lasting improvement, while others require ongoing dietary management and medical therapy.

Is it genetic?

Primary intestinal lymphangiectasia can run in families, whereas secondary cases arise from other issues-such as infections, surgery, or organ disease-and are not inherited.

Does insurance cover it?

Most insurance plans cover the necessary tests and treatments. Our office staff will help you verify your benefits and guide you through the insurance process.

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