D-xylose Absorption Test

Xylose Tolerance Test

Why It Is Done

A test for D-xylose is done to:

• Check to see if malabsorption syndrome is causing symptoms, such as chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and weakness. A person with malabsorption syndrome is unable to absorb nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from the intestinal tract into the bloodstream.
• Find the cause of a child's failure to gain weight, especially when the child seems to be eating enough food.

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Author:	Ralph Poore	Last Updated: June 20, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Peter J. Kahrilas, MD - Gastroenterology Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
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