The xylose excretion test

It is thought that this simple and useful procedure can give valuable information on the state of carbohydrate absorption. Details of the determination are presented and the rationale of the test discussed. Diseases associated with defection absorption, such as celiac disease, Whipple's disease, scleroderma, pernicious anemia and certain post-operative states are illustrated. It is suggested that the presence of ascites may account for the low values encountered in some patients with hepatic cirrhosis (AU)