Xylose Absorption Test To Evaluate D-xylose Intake By Intestines

The Xylose Absorption Test helps diagnose digestive issues by checking how well your body absorbs carbs. It's used when you experience tummy troubles.

Xylose Absorption Test

Here are the basic details of the Xylose Absorption Test.

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

Xylose Absorption Test Means

Xylose Absorption Test assesses carbohydrate absorption in the body.

• It helps diagnose malabsorption and digestive disorders by measuring xylose levels in blood and urine.
• A fasting period is essential before the test.
• It can distinguish between different causes of malabsorption.
• The test is used when symptoms like diarrhea and fatty stools are present.

Xylose Absorption Test Purpose

The purpose of the Xylose Absorption Test is to:

• Xylose Absorption Test assesses the body's ability to absorb carbohydrates.
• It helps diagnose malabsorption, distinguishing between intestinal, pancreatic, and bile-related issues.
• It detects malabsorption's underlying cause.
• Utilized for unexplained diarrhea, fatty stools, and digestive symptoms.
• Aids in planning appropriate treatment and dietary modifications.

Xylose Absorption Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the Xylose Absorption Test.

Before Test

• Fast for 8 hours prior to the test.
• Avoid foods high in pentose, such as jams, fruits, and pastries for 24 hours.
• Consult your healthcare provider about necessary medication changes.

During Test

• Arrive at the testing facility on time.
• A fasting blood sample is drawn.
• Drink the provided xylose solution.
• Rest quietly during the test duration.

After Test

• Collect all urine over 5 hours following the xylose dose.
• Test samples will be sent to the laboratory for analysis.
• Wait for the test results, typically within a few days.

Xylose Absorption Test Procedure

Here is the basic Xylose Absorption Test Procedure.

• Patient fasts for 8 hours before the test.
• A fasting blood sample is drawn.
• The patient drinks a standard dose of xylose dissolved in water.
• The patient is asked to rest quietly during the test.
• Another blood sample is collected at 2 hours (1 hour for children).
• All urine is collected for 5 hours starting from the xylose dose.
• Fasting blood, timed blood, and 5-hour urine samples are tested for xylose levels.

Xylose Absorption Test Result

• High blood and urine xylose levels suggest normal absorption.
• Low blood and urine xylose levels indicate poor absorption.
• Abnormal results may require additional tests or small-bowel biopsy for further evaluation.

Xylose Absorption Test Normal Range

Here is the normal range of the Xylose Absorption Test.

Xylose Absorption Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the Xylose Absorption Test.

Xylose Absorption Test High Levels

Here are some possible causes of high Xylose Absorption levels:

High Xylose Absorption Test levels may indicate normal absorption or potential kidney-related issues or impairment.

Xylose Absorption Test Low Levels

Here are some possible causes of low Xylose Absorption levels:

Low Xylose Absorption Test levels may indicate issues like bacterial overgrowth or celiac disease, leading to malabsorption and digestive symptoms.

Specimen Requirements For Xylose Absorption Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the Xylose Absorption Test.

Xylose Absorption Test is Safe?

Xylose Absorption Test is generally considered safe.

• It involves blood and urine collection, which are routine procedures.
• There is a minimal risk of discomfort during the blood draw.
• Some people may experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea from the xylose solution.
• Overall, it is a low-risk diagnostic test.

When Do You Get Xylose Absorption Test Results? 

• Xylose Absorption Test results are typically available within a few days.
• The exact turnaround time may vary depending on the laboratory.
• Some urgent cases might receive results sooner.
• Your healthcare provider will inform you when the results are ready for review.
• You will discuss the results and their implications with your healthcare provider during a follow-up appointment.

Xylose Absorption Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of Xylose Absorption Test.

• It's not widely offered by all healthcare providers.
• Xylose Absorption Test is not a routine diagnostic test.
• Its use has decreased over time.
• Test results can be affected by various factors like medications and exercise.
• Abnormal results may require further tests to determine the underlying cause of malabsorption.

Xylose Absorption Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the Xylose Absorption Test.

• Low risk: Xylose Absorption Test is generally low-risk.
• Routine procedures: Involves common blood and urine collection.
• Minimal discomfort: Only mild discomfort during blood draw.
• Potential side effects: Some may experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Overall safe: Considered a safe diagnostic test.

Doctor Recommendations After Xylose Absorption Test Result

 Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the Xylose Absorption Test.

Xylose Absorption Test Price

Here are the estimated Xylose Absorption Test Prices in India with different top cities:

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, Xylose Absorption Test assesses carbohydrate absorption for diagnosing malabsorption. Abnormal results may require gastroenterologist consultation. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

• D-xylose absorption test - Wikipedia [1].
• Xylose absorption and its clinical significance - PubMed - NIH [2].