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Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: a comprehensive review

Andrew C Dukowicz1, Brian E Lacy, Gary M Levine

  • 1Dr. Dukowicz is a fellow in the Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.

Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|October 1, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is more common than previously believed and presents with varied symptoms. This review covers SIBO

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a complex condition characterized by excessive bacteria in the small intestine.
  • Historically underestimated, SIBO is now recognized as a more prevalent disorder with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive review of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
  • To discuss the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and treatment strategies for SIBO.

Main Methods:

  • This is a comprehensive review article.
  • Literature search and synthesis of existing research on SIBO.

Main Results:

  • SIBO is more prevalent than previously thought.
  • Patient presentation ranges from mild symptoms to severe malabsorption.
  • Optimal treatment for SIBO is still under investigation.

Conclusions:

  • SIBO is an increasingly recognized gastrointestinal disorder.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate optimal diagnostic and treatment protocols for SIBO.
  • The association between SIBO and irritable bowel syndrome warrants continued investigation.
Keywords:
Bacterial overgrowthantibioticsbloatingdiarrheamotility disorderssmall intestinal bacterial overgrowth

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