Final answer:
Weight loss and malnutrition in chronic pancreatitis stem from malabsorption due to enzyme insufficiency and food avoidance related to pain. Malabsorption affects fats, fat-soluble vitamins, and proteins, leading to deficiencies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Weight loss and malnutrition may occur with chronic pancreatitis due to malabsorption and food avoidance. Chronic pancreatitis leads to the inflammation of the pancreas, which disrupts the organ's ability to produce digestive enzymes. This insufficiency results in the malabsorption of nutrients, particularly fats, leading to steatorrhea (fatty stools) and weight loss. Food avoidance occurs as individuals may consciously or subconsciously skip meals to avoid the pain associated with eating and digestion when inflamed pancreas is stressed.
Aside from malabsorption, pancreatitis can cause malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), which can lead to deficiencies. Additionally, the breakdown of proteins may be compromised due to enzyme deficits, causing protein malnutrition, and the associated abdominal pain can deter food intake.