Intestinal absorption at high altitude.
Three tests of small intestinal function were performed at 3100 m and 4846 m to seek evidence of malabsorption of high altitude. Xylose tolerance did not change in 11 subjects but, in three who ascended to 5600 m, one-hour xylose levels were significantly lower. The results of an oxalate loading test did not suggest significant fat malabsorption. A direct fat absorption test using chylomicron levels after ingestion of 100 g fat showed significantly increased levels at high altitude. We conclude that there is no evidence of malabsorption up to 4846 m.
Chesner
I M
IM
Department of Medicine, East Birmingham Hospital, UK.
Small
N A
NA
Dykes
P W
PW
D000086:Acetazolamide / Q000378:metabolism; D000531:Altitude; D002914:Chylomicrons / Q000378:metabolism; D005223:Fats / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007408:Intestinal Absorption; D007421:Intestine, Small / Q000378:metabolism; D008286:Malabsorption Syndromes / Q000209:etiology; D010070:Oxalates; D019815:Oxalic Acid; D014994:Xylose / Q000378:metabolism
D002914:Chylomicrons; D005223:Fats; D010070:Oxalates; D019815:Oxalic Acid; D014994:Xylose; D000086:Acetazolamide