True about enterocutaneous fistula -a) High output fistula drains 500 ml/dayb) Malignancy is most common causec) Fluid & electrolyte loss can occurd) No skin damage

**Core Concept**
An enterocutaneous fistula is an abnormal connection between the intestine and the skin, leading to the loss of intestinal contents through the skin. This condition can result from various causes, including surgery, trauma, or underlying diseases like cancer.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **c) Fluid & electrolyte loss can occur**. This happens due to the continuous loss of intestinal contents, including water, electrolytes, and nutrients, which can lead to volume depletion, electrolyte imbalances, and malnutrition. The loss of these essential substances can have significant clinical implications, including dehydration, acid-base disturbances, and weight loss.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** High-output fistulas are typically characterized by the loss of > 500 ml/day, but this is not a defining feature of all enterocutaneous fistulas. Low-output fistulas can also occur.
* **Option B:** Malignancy is not the most common cause of enterocutaneous fistulas. The most common causes are postoperative complications (e.g., after surgical resection of the intestine) and Crohn's disease.
* **Option D:** Skin damage is often a consequence of an enterocutaneous fistula, due to the continuous flow of intestinal contents through the skin, leading to skin irritation, excoriation, and potentially, infection.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to recognize that enterocutaneous fistulas can lead to significant clinical complications, including fluid and electrolyte imbalances, malnutrition, and infections. Accurate diagnosis and management of these fistulas are crucial to prevent these complications and improve patient outcomes.

**Correct Answer: C. Fluid & electrolyte loss can occur.**