University of Central Florida (UCF) MCB2004C Microbiology for Health Professionals Practice Exam 4

Decreased bile production is a plausible explanation for greasy stools and increased bacterial presence in a malabsorption case because bile plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of fats. Bile acids are responsible for emulsifying fats, facilitating their breakdown and absorption in the intestines. When there is decreased bile production, the emulsification of fats is impaired, leading to malabsorption. This can result in the excretion of undigested fats in the stool, which manifests as greasy or steatorrhea.

Additionally, impaired fat absorption can create an environment conducive to the overgrowth of bacteria, as undigested fats can alter the gut flora and promote increased bacterial presence. This overgrowth can further complicate the malabsorption issues, perpetuating a cycle of digestive inefficiency and contributing to symptoms.

In contrast, increased bile production would likely improve fat digestion and absorption, leading to less greasy stool and reduced bacterial overgrowth. Excessive dietary fat alone might not directly account for the increased stool greasiness unless accompanied by bile production issues. Infection by pathogens could lead to malabsorption, but it does not specifically target the relationship between bile production and fat digestion in the same way that decreased bile production does.