What type of fecal matter is associated with reduced intestinal absorption of fat?

Steatorrhea is characterized by the presence of excess fat in the stool, which is a direct result of the reduced absorption of fat in the intestines. When the body is unable to adequately digest or absorb fats, the undigested fat passes through the intestines and is excreted in the feces, leading to stools that are often pale, bulky, and foul-smelling. This condition can occur due to various factors, including pancreatic insufficiency, certain gastrointestinal disorders, or malabsorption syndromes, where the body fails to absorb nutrients effectively.

In contrast, melena refers to dark, tarry stools due to gastrointestinal bleeding, diarrhea is characterized by loose or watery stools often resulting from infections or digestive disorders, and constipation is characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements. None of these conditions are specifically linked to the digestive process involving fat absorption, which is the central focus of steatorrhea.