Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency (EFAD)
Keywords:
essential fatty acid, parenteral nutrition, intravenous lipid emulsion, soy bean oil, linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acidAbstract
Essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD) is a clinical condition resulting from inadequate intake or absorption of essential fatty acids, which the body cannot synthesize endogenously. It is commonly seen in patients with fat malabsorption, those receiving long-term parenteral nutrition without lipid emulsions, or individuals on prolonged fat-restricted diets. At-risk patients should undergo thorough clinical assessment and be evaluated for otherpotential differential diagnoses. Laboratory investigations may be necessary, particularly in subclinical cases, to support diagnosis and guide appropriate nutritional intervention.
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