14C-triolein breath test
Last reviewed 01/2018
The 14C-triolein breath test is used to investigate the absorption of fats from the small bowel.
In principle, a 14C-labelled triglyceride is ingested, digested, absorbed and metabolised, releasing 14C-labelled carbon dioxide.
The test may be performed in a day ward and requires laboratory facilities to detect the beta-emitting 14C.
The test is unreliable in the following circumstances:
- diabetes mellitus
- gross obesity
- thyroid disease
- chronic respiratory insufficiency