D-Lactic acidosis, a life-threatening complication in short-bowel syndrome

Abstract

D-Lactic acidemia is a rare and potentially lethal complication following massive small intestinal resection or intestinal bypass surgery. Reported is a 20-month-old child with short-bowel syndrome who developed recurrent episodes of atactic gait, slurred speech and somnolence associated with elevated serum levels of D-lactic acid. The pathophysiology of this condition is reviewed and its management discussed.