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[Experience with hydrogen (H2) breath test]
L Herszényi1, K Miskolczi, E Tolnay
1Semmelweis Orvostudományi Egyetem, II. Belgyógyászati Klinika, Budapest.
Orvosi Hetilap
|September 27, 1992
Summary
The hydrogen (H2) breath test is a sensitive and repeatable diagnostic tool for gastrointestinal issues. It identified high rates of lactose intolerance, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and motility disorders in patients.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Diagnostic Medicine
- Breath Analysis
Context:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms are common, necessitating accurate diagnostic methods.
- The hydrogen (H2) breath test is increasingly utilized in clinical practice.
- Understanding the prevalence of various gastrointestinal disorders is crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the utility and findings of the hydrogen (H2) breath test in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.
- To determine the prevalence of lactose intolerance, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome, and motility disorders.
- To assess the diagnostic value of repeated hydrogen (H2) breath tests for monitoring treatment efficacy.
Summary:
- The hydrogen (H2) breath test was applied to 108 patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Results showed lactose intolerance in 51.8%, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome in 17.8%, and motility disorders in 46.4%.
- A significant proportion of patients with lactose intolerance were unaware of their condition or asymptomatic. Repeated tests may monitor antibiotic therapy effectiveness for SIBO.
Impact:
- The hydrogen (H2) breath test is a sensitive and repeatable method for diagnosing gastrointestinal conditions.
- Findings highlight the prevalence of undiagnosed lactose intolerance and the utility of H2 breath testing in managing SIBO.
- The study supports the integration of the hydrogen (H2) breath test into modern gastroenterological diagnostics.