D-Xylose Absorption Test

• If you have an abnormally high amount of bacteria in your intestines, you may have to take antibiotics for a day or two before the test.
• This test can cause Reference dehydration Opens New Window. Make sure that you drink enough fluids to replace lost liquids after you have completed the test. Tell your doctor if you have problems with diarrhea after drinking the D-xylose solution.
• Blood D-xylose levels are generally considered more reliable than urine levels in children younger than 12 years old.
• A test that looks at the lining of the small intestines (upper gastrointestinal series) may be used if Crohn's disease or another malabsorption syndrome is suspected. For more information, see the topic Reference Upper Gastrointestinal Series.

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