An abnormal result of the xylose absorption test that is used to assess the ability of the intestines to absorb D-xylose. D-xylose is a five-carbon monosaccharide found in some plants. The patient drinks a solution containing a specific amount of D-xylose and the concentration of xylose is measured in the blood circulation and then in the urine. A low amount of D-xylose indicates reduced small intestinal absorbtion.
Comment:
The standard 25-g D-xylose test in adults, based on analysis of a 5-h urine collection and a 1-h serum sample, discriminates between normal subjects and patients with proximal small intestinal malabsorption with X5% specificity and sensitivity.