WH Ku, DCY Lau, KF Huen

Abstract

D-lactic acidosis is a rare complication of short bowel syndrome. Clinically there are episodes of encephalopathy and metabolic acidosis with an increased anion gap. Formation of D-lactic acid by the abnormal gut flora, together with its impaired metabolism results in its accumulation and subsequent effect on the central nervous system. In this article we reported a boy with short bowel syndrome and D-lactic acidosis provoked by ingestion of probiotics. The probiotics are in the form of capsules and probiotic-containing formula. We had also reviewed the paediatric cases of D-lactic acidosis and discussed its biochemistry, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment. With more understanding of its mechanism, we stated that D-lactic acidosis can be treated as well as provoked by probiotics.