Uses of Elemental Diets in Clinical Situations presents contributions from the world's foremost experts on the uses of elemental predigested formula diets in the prevention and management of intestinal disorders. Experimental reviews dealing with pancreatic enzymes, intestinal bacterial translocation, and immunity provide background information for understanding the mode of action of elemental diets. Practical information concerning various compositions, methods of administration, osmolarity, physiology of nutrients absorbtion, and possible problems related to the use of elemental diets is provided, and the subject of enteral vs parenteral nutrition is discussed. Clinical studies cover a wide spectrum of intestinal conditions: radiation-induced and chemotherapy-induced enteropathies, Crohn's disease in children and adults, intractable diarrohea in infants, food allergy in chilodren, immediate postoperative feeding short-gut and AIDS-related enteropathy. The scientific value of the book is further enhanced by clinical studies in which an elemental formula diet is compared to a control non-hydrolized formula diet