Malabsorption and Bacterial Overgrowth

What is malabsorption and bacterial overgrowth?

Bacterial overgrowth, or, more correctly, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition of the small intestine resulting in largely increased numbers of bowel bacteria. Because it is controversial whether the disease is caused purely by increased bacteria or not, more often the disease is referred to as antibiotic responsive diarrhoea.

The bacteria cause damage to the absorptive surface of the bowel so that even if food has been properly digested it cannot be absorbed through the bowel and into the body. 

Is this the same as an infection causing enteritis?

Malabsorption and SIBO results in diarrhoea similar to that caused by enteritis due to a specific infection, e.g. Salmonella food poisoning. However with bacterial overgrowth the diarrhoea is chronic in nature, often present for weeks or months.

Are any dogs more susceptible than others?

German Shepherd Dogs appear to have a higher incidence of malabsorption problems. They are frequently associated with pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) but SIBO can occur on its own.

What are the usual signs of malabsorption?

Like pancreatic insufficiency the principal sign is weight loss with chronic diarrhoea.

Can it be differentiated from pancreatic insufficiency on the symptoms?

In most cases no. Specific blood and faeces tests are necessary to differentiate. However with malabsorption the appetite is not as voracious and the diarrhoea usually does not have such a high volume as with EPI.

What is the cause of this condition?

Many cases are idiopathic, i.e. the cause is unknown. However it is frequently associated with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, EPI.

Can the condition be cured?

Many cases respond to long term antibiotics, together with a highly digestible diet with restricted fat. If relapses do occur, like EPI, long term treatment may be necessary and this can be expensive.