Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth

The term "small intestinal bacterial overgrowth" (SIBO) has been used to refer to a disorder resulting from the colonization of the small bowel by an increased number of microorganisms or by the presence of bacteria that are not usual constituents of this part of the gastrointestinal tract. Clinical presentations, often in patients with certain risk factors, can range from a full-blown malabsorption syndrome to such "functional" complaints as bloating and flatulence. SIBO is diagnosed by either culture of a small bowel aspirate or one of several breath tests. Treatment of SIBO entails risk factor modification, correction of nutritional deficiencies, and oral antibiotics.