Xylose Testing
What is Xylose Testing?
Xylose testing is a diagnostic test designed to measure the absorption of carbohydrates-especially sugars-from the gastrointestinal tract. Xylose testing is sometimes referred to as an “intestinal absorption test” or “intestinal permeability test” and can help to diagnose and monitor malabsorption syndromes, intolerances, and allergies.
Types of Xylose Tests
There are two types of xylose tests, the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and the intravenous xylose test (IVX). Both tests involve measuring the amount of xylose in the blood following its ingestion. However, the OGTT requires patients to consume a solution of xylose, while the IVX involves injecting a solution of xylose directly into the vein.
When is Xylose Testing Recommended?
Xylose testing may be recommended to diagnose or monitor certain digestive disorders, including:
- Celiac disease
- Cystic fibrosis
- Crohn’s disease
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Xylose testing may also be useful for evaluating the absorption of nutrients in people who do not have any obvious signs of digestive disorders.
Preparation for Xylose Tests
For the oral glucose tolerance test, patients should not eat or drink anything the evening before their appointment. Since the intravenous xylose test requires sedation, patients may need to avoid food and drink for several hours before their appointment.
Procedure of Xylose Tests
During the oral glucose tolerance test, patients will swallow a solution containing a small amount of xylose. Blood samples will then be taken to measure the level of xylose in the blood. The test takes approximately three hours.
The intravenous xylose test requires the patient to be connected to an intravenous line. A medication will be given to help the patient relax and then a solution of xylose will be injected into the vein. Blood samples will be taken to measure the level of xylose in the blood. The test takes about one hour.
Risks of Xylose Tests
One of the risks associated with xylose testing is a false positive result, which may indicate a digestive disorder when none actually exists. This risk is minimized by carefully reviewing patient medical history and other test results.
Common side effects associated with the oral glucose tolerance test include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, and diarrhea. These side effects may be alleviated with anti-nausea medications and antacids.
Side effects associated with the intravenous xylose test include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and flushing. These side effects should resolve soon after the test has been completed.
Why Xylose Testing?
Xylose testing is a useful diagnostic tool for evaluating the absorption of carbohydrates from the gastrointestinal tract. It can help diagnose and monitor malabsorption syndromes, intolerances, and allergies. Xylose testing can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of dietary modifications or medications.
Conclusion
Xylose testing is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the absorption of carbohydrates from the gastrointestinal tract. The two types of xylose tests are the oral glucose tolerance test and the intravenous xylose test. Xylose tests may be recommended to diagnose or monitor certain digestive disorders, such as celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Preparation and procedure for the xylose tests may vary, but common side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, and drowsiness. Xylose testing is a useful tool for diagnosing and monitoring digestive disorders and the effectiveness of dietary modifications or medications.