breath tests in gastroenterology
Last reviewed 01/2018
Breath tests may be used to assess:
- malabsorption of specific carbohydrates e.g. lactose hydrogen breath test
- small intestine bacterial overgrowth e.g. glucose, 14C-xylose and 14C-glycocholate hydrogen breath tests
- fat absorption e.g. 14C-triolein breath test
Isotopes are best avoided in women of child bearing age.