Fat malabsorption in biliary atresia places deficiency risk in which group of vitamins?

• A. Water-soluble vitamins
• B. Fat-soluble vitamins
• C. Minerals
• D. All vitamins

Answer: (B)

Fat absorption hinges on bile to emulsify fats and form micelles, which carry fat-soluble vitamins to the intestinal lining for absorption. In biliary atresia, bile flow into the gut is reduced, so micelle formation is impaired and fats—and the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K—are poorly absorbed. Water-soluble vitamins don’t depend on fat for absorption, so they’re less affected by this mechanism, though overall malnutrition can still impact nutrient status. Minerals can be affected to some extent but aren’t the primary group at risk in this context. Therefore, fat-soluble vitamins are the nutrients most at risk.