The quantitative determination of sugar in stool is a diagnostic test used primarily to detect carbohydrate malabsorption. This type of test is valuable for diagnosing conditions such as lactose intolerance, fructose intolerance, and other disorders where the digestion and absorption of sugars are impaired. By measuring the levels of sugars such as lactose, fructose, or sorbitol in the stool, healthcare providers can identify the specific sugars that a patient's digestive system cannot process effectively. The presence of undigested sugars in the stool often leads to symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain....
Individuals experiencing symptoms of carbohydrate malabsorption such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain after consuming certain sugars should consider this test. It is particularly recommended for those suspected of having lactose or fructose intolerance or other related digestive disorders.
Symptoms that may warrant a stool sugar test include chronic diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, and gas, especially following the consumption of specific types of carbohydrates like dairy products (lactose) or fruits and sweeteners (fructose).
Abnormal results are generally caused by an inability to digest certain sugars due to deficiencies in specific enzymes like lactase in the case of lactose intolerance or issues with the transport mechanisms in the intestinal cells. These deficiencies prevent the normal breakdown and absorption of sugars.
The samples are analyzed in a laboratory to detect and measure the amount of undigested sugars, indicating malabsorption.