[Breath-analysis tests in gastroenetrological diagnosis]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Diagnostics
• Biochemistry

Context:

• Breath tests utilizing 14C-labelled compounds have become widely applicable in diagnosing various gastroenterological conditions.
• The method involves oral administration of a 14C-labelled compound and subsequent measurement of 14CO2 in breath samples.
• Specific tests include 14C-glycyl-cholate for bile acid issues, 14C-lactose for lactase deficiency, and 14C-aminopyrine for liver function.

Purpose:

• To review the application and utility of 14C-breath tests in gastroenterological diagnostics.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of different 14C-labelled compounds in diagnosing specific gastrointestinal disorders.
• To compare 14C-breath tests with other breath analysis methods like H2 and 13C analysis.

Summary:

• 14C-glycyl-cholate breath tests are effective for detecting small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and bile acid malabsorption.
• The 14C-lactose breath test is a valuable tool for diagnosing lactase deficiency.
• While the 14C-tripalmitin test shows limited utility for fat malabsorption, the 14C-aminopyrine test shows promise as a liver function test.
• H2 breath analysis is useful for carbohydrate malabsorption and intestinal transit time but is currently limited to research settings.

Impact:

• Simple 14C-breath tests enhance the diagnostic capabilities for a range of gastroenterological diseases.
• The findings guide the selection of appropriate breath tests for specific clinical scenarios.
• The review suggests potential future directions, including the increased use of H2 and 13C breath analysis, despite the established role of 14C methods.