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Related Experiment Videos

Breath tests: principles, problems, and promise

C W Lo, E A Carter, W A Walker

    Advances in Pediatrics
    |January 1, 1982
    PubMed
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    Breath tests detect malabsorption by measuring gases like hydrogen produced by gut bacteria after consuming carbohydrates. These noninvasive tests offer convenient insights into digestive health and metabolic functions.

    Area of Science:

    • Gastroenterology
    • Medical Diagnostics
    • Biochemistry

    Background:

    • Breath tests measure intestinal gases, absorbed, and expired.
    • Carbohydrate malabsorption is detected by measuring breath hydrogen.
    • Labeled substrates are used for fat malabsorption, bile acid issues, and liver function.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To review the principles and applications of various breath tests.
    • To highlight the utility of breath analysis in diagnosing malabsorption and assessing metabolic function.
    • To discuss the potential and limitations of current breath testing technologies.

    Main Methods:

    • Measurement of expired breath gases (hydrogen) after carbohydrate administration.
    • Use of gas chromatography for hydrogen detection.

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  • Analysis of labeled carbon isotopes (radioactive or stable) in expired CO2 after substrate ingestion.

    • Main Results:

    • Increased breath hydrogen indicates carbohydrate malabsorption or marks transit time.
    • Abnormal labeled CO2 rise suggests fat malabsorption.
    • Labeled bile acids and drugs assess bacterial overgrowth and liver function, respectively.

    Conclusions:

    • Breath tests are convenient, noninvasive diagnostic tools for malabsorption and metabolic assessment.
    • Stable isotopes offer potential for wider use, especially in vulnerable populations.
    • Advancements in measurement techniques are expected to expand clinical applications of breath analysis.