Bacterial Overgrowth Of Small Intestine

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) refers to a condition in which abnormally large numbers of bacteria (at least 100,000 bacteria per ml of fluid) are present in the small intestine. Normally the bacteria in the small intestine and large intestine are different. In SIBO the bacteria resemble those found in the large intestine.

Symptoms

Excess gas, abdominal bloating and distension, diarrhea, abdominal pain.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Identifying the bacterial overgrowth directly by culturing the small intestine fluid, or indirectly by performing a hydrogen breath test.

Treatment

Treatment consists of antibiotics (Levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, rifaximin), and probiotics.