[Influence of chronic renal failure on the D-xylose test in man]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of chronic renal insufficiency on absorption, distribution and elimination of D-xylose which was chosen as a "test substance". Pharmacokinetic analysis was based on eighteen D-xylose tests carried out either by the enteral or parenteral route in a randomized fashion on nine patients suffering from chronic renal insufficiency. These results were compared with those obtained in healthy volunteers. The renal clearance was simultaneously measured with the 51Cr-EDTA test. In the experimental conditions the intestinal absorption of D-xylose was not modified qualitatively (absorption rate) nor quantitatively (systemic availability). Inspite of this, the maximal concentration of the D-xylose was higher in these patients and was reached later than in healthy volunteers. This fact should be taken into consideration when interpreting the results of a D-xylose test in patients suffering from chronic renal insufficiency.