What is a xylose test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is a xylose test?
This test measures the levels of xylose in the urine. It is also measured in the blood.
Also Read: HbA1C
What is xylose?
It is also known as D-xylose. It is a type of sugar that is easily absorbed by the intestines. When problems occur with absorption, then the D-xylose is not absorbed by the intestines. The levels of D-xylose are low in the blood or urine.
What is the importance of D-xylose?
D-xylose is a type of sugar that is widely used as a diabetic sweeter in food and beverages. It has also been used as a diagnostic agent to check malabsorption disorder.
What is the normal value for xylose?
Normal individual:
- 25 g oral dose of D-xylose will be absorbed.
- 4.5g in 5 hours, xylose excreted in the urine.
Why is it done?
This test is done to be:
- To check the malabsorption disorders that affect the ability to digest and absorb nutrients from the meal. This causes symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and weakness.
- To find out if the child is not gaining weight, especially if the child seems to be eating enough food.
Why do I need a xylose test?
If you have symptoms of malabsorption disorder then you may need this test. The symptoms are as follows:
- Persistent diarrhoea
- Abdominal Pain
- Bloating
- Gas
- Unexplained weight loss, or inability to gain weight in children
What does low xylose indicate?
The levels of xylose are lower than normal level then it indicates a malabsorption disorder such as:
- Celiac disease, is an autoimmune disorder that causes an allergic reaction to gluten.
- Crohn’s disease is a condition that causes swelling and inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Whipple disease is a rare condition that prevents the intestine from absorbing nutrients.
Low levels of xylose may be caused by an infection from a parasite such as:
- Hookworm
- Giardiasis
