Multiple choice

Lactose intolerance is the inability of an individual to digest lactose, which is a prominent sugar found in milk. Which among the following statements regarding this disease is false?

  1. Primary lactase deficiency is caused by the absence of a lactase persistence allele.

  2. Lactose intolerance is not an allergy.

  3. Congenital lactase deficiency is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder.

  4. Secondary lactase deficiency is an inherited genetic disorder.

  5. Lactose intolerance is caused by insufficient levels of lactase in the lining of the duodenum.

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Secondary, acquired or transient lactase deficiency is caused by an injury to the small intestine, usually during infancy, from acute gastroenteritis, diarrhea, chemotherapy, intestinal parasites or other environmental causes.