Collection of duodenal bile in infants and children by the string test.

Present methods for collection of duodenal bile may be difficult to perform and may involve the use of sedation and roentgenograms. The string test (Entero-Test Pediatric, HDC Corporation, Mountain View, CA) has replaced the need for intestinal intubation for diagnosis of giardiasis and bacterial overgrowth. The present study investigated the use of the string test for collection of duodenal bile. Fifteen children were administered string tests. No complications were encountered. The distal end of the string had yellow pigmented fluid that contained bilirubin conjugates in quantity and quality compatible with duodenal bile. The study demonstrates that the string test is a useful procedure for collection of duodenal bile samples in infants and children.