Several conditions characterised by faulty absorption from the INTESTINE of foodstuffs such as fat, vitamins and mineral salts. These include COELIAC DISEASE, SPRUE, CYSTIC FIBROSIS and pancreatitis (see PANCREAS, DISORDERS OF). Surgical removal of the small intestine also causes this syndrome. Symptoms include ANAEMIA, diarrhoea, OEDEMA, vitamin deficiencies, weight loss and, in severe cases, MALNUTRITION. The stools tend to be pale, bulky, offensive and difficult to flush away because of their high fat content.