What condition is characterized by bulky, frothy stools that are difficult to flush?

Celiac disease is characterized by a malabsorption syndrome that results from an immune reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In this condition, the damage to the intestinal lining leads to poor absorption of nutrients, causing fat to not be adequately absorbed. This malabsorption results in bulky, frothy stools that may be difficult to flush, a characteristic symptom known as steatorrhea. The presence of excess fat in the stool often gives it a pale appearance, and the stools may have an oily quality due to the increased fat content.

The other conditions listed do not typically present with this specific stool characteristic. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause changes in bowel habits and may lead to diarrhea or constipation, but it does not produce the frothy, bulky stools seen in celiac disease. Constipation usually results in hard, infrequent stools, not bulky and frothy ones. Intussusception involves a portion of the intestine telescoping into another, leading to obstruction, but this would not cause the distinctive stools associated with malabsorption like in celiac disease. Therefore, the characteristics of the stools in celiac disease are a key indicator for this condition.