Beschreibung:
AbstractEssential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD) has most commonly been reported in parenterally fed individuals but may also present in patients receiving fat‐restricted diets and in patients with fat‐malabsorption disorders. This article reviews the physical and biochemical assessment for EFAD in clinical practice and disorders of fat malabsorption as potential risk factors for EFAD. A case report is included to describe the fatty acid profile of a patient with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency receiving low‐dose pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy after a self‐imposed fat‐restricted diet. The current challenges with laboratory interpretation of essential fatty acid status are also discussed.