Abetalipoproteinemia is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the absence of beta-lipoproteins and defects in lipid absorption. Histopathologic findings include:
Step 1: Villous Atrophy:
1. There is mild to moderate villous atrophy, although it is less severe than in other malabsorption syndromes like celiac disease.
Step 2: Lipid Accumulation in Enterocytes:
1. There is lipid accumulation in the enterocytes, which appears as clear vacuoles in the cytoplasm due to defective lipid absorption.
Step 3: Enterocyte Flattening and Decreased Goblet Cells:
1. Flattening of the enterocytes may be seen, and there is a reduction in the number of goblet cells.