Lactase deficiency in ulcerative colitis, regional enteritis, and viral hepatitis

Oral lactose tolerance tests were found to show abnormal results in 4 of 9 patients with acute ulcerative colitis, 3 of 5 patients with regional enteritis, and 4 or 11 patients with viral hepatitis. In many of these patients, a history of milk intolerance which antedated the onset of their intestinal or hepatic disease could be obtained. Two of 12 selected control subjects also showed impaired hydrolysis of ingested lactose. No correlation with the sex, age, or race of the patients was noted. It is suggested that restriction of milk and milk products be considered in all patients with acute intestinal diseases who are unable effectively to hydrolyze dietary lactose.