D-xylose Absorption Test: Why It Is Done
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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.
| Last updated: | April 30, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Ralph Poore |
| Reviewed By: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine, Peter J. Kahrilas, MD - Gastroenterology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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