Xylose absorption test
What is being analysed?
The xylose absorption test is a diagnostic examination used to evaluate the body's ability to absorb xylose, a type of sugar, in the small intestine.
When is it requested?
The xylose absorption test is requested when there is suspicion of malabsorption syndromes or disorders affecting the small intestine's absorptive capacity.
Why conduct the analysis?
The analysis helps diagnose conditions such as coeliac disease, tropical sprue, and other gastrointestinal disorders that may impair xylose absorption.
When to conduct the analysis?
The xylose absorption test is typically performed when patients present with symptoms suggestive of malabsorption, such as chronic diarrhoea, weight loss, and nutrient deficiencies.
What sample is required?
No sample is required for the xylose absorption test. Instead, patients consume a solution containing xylose, and urine samples are collected over a specified period to measure xylose levels.
Is any prior preparation necessary?
Patients may be instructed to avoid certain medications and dietary restrictions before the test to ensure accurate results. However, specific preparation instructions may vary depending on the healthcare provider's recommendations.
How is it used?
The xylose absorption test assesses the body's ability to absorb xylose by measuring the amount of xylose excreted in urine over a designated time frame following ingestion of a xylose solution.
What are the normal values?
Normal values for the xylose absorption test typically range between 20 to 50 per cent of the ingested dose of xylose excreted in urine over a specific time period.
Xylose absorption test values table
| Xylose absorption levels | Interpretation |
| Normal | 20 to 50 per cent of ingested dose excreted in urine over specified time |
| Abnormal | Below normal levels indicate impaired xylose absorption |
Please note that interpretation of xylose absorption test results should be done by a qualified healthcare professional in conjunction with clinical evaluation and other diagnostic tests.
What does it mean to have altered values?
Abnormally low levels of xylose excretion suggest impaired absorption, indicating potential malabsorption syndromes or small intestine disorders.