A blunted villi refers to the flattening of villi in the small intestine.
Understanding Villi and Villous Blunting
Villi are small, finger-like projections that line the small intestine. Their primary function is to increase the surface area available for nutrient absorption. When villi become damaged and flattened, this is known as villous blunting, also called villous atrophy. This flattening reduces the surface area, leading to decreased nutrient absorption.
Causes of Villous Blunting
Several conditions can cause villous blunting. According to the reference, these include:
- Celiac disease
- Autoimmune enteropathy
- Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID)
- Peptic duodenitis
- Food allergies
- Giardiasis
- Viral enteritis
Implications of Villous Blunting
Villous blunting can result in malabsorption of nutrients, leading to various health issues. Diagnosis often involves a biopsy of the small intestine to examine the villi under a microscope. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the villous damage.
