Evaluation of the string test in intestinal bacterial overgrowth.

To determine the efficacy in assessing bacterial overgrowth, the string test (EnteroTest-Pediatric) and duodenal aspiration were compared in 18 children with chronic diarrhea. Isolation and significance of organisms in the small intestine were identical with both methods in all patients. These data suggested that the string test is an accurate, simple, and safe method for assessment of small-intestinal microflora.