Small bowel bacterial overgrowth


Definition

Small bowel bacterial overgrowth is a condition in which very large numbers of bacteria grow in the small intestine.

Alternative Names

Overgrowth - intestinal bacteria; Bacterial overgrowth - intestine; Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth; SIBO

Causes

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Most of the time, unlike the large intestine, the small intestine does not have a large number of bacteria. Excess bacteria in the small intestine may use up the nutrients needed by the body. As a result, a person may become malnourished.

The breakdown of nutrients by the excess bacteria can also damage the lining of the small intestine. This can make it even harder for the body to absorb nutrients.

Conditions that can lead to overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine include:

Symptoms

The most common symptoms are:

Other symptoms may include:

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history. Tests may include:

Treatment

The goal is to treat the cause of the bacterial overgrowth. Treatment may include:

A lactose-free diet can be helpful.

Possible Complications

Severe cases lead to malnutrition. Other possible complications include:

References

Lacy BE, DiBaise JK. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 105.

Semrad CE. Approach to the patient with diarrhea and malabsorption. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 126.

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