Overview
Breath testing is a non-invasive diagnostic tool used to detect various gastrointestinal conditions, including small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), carbohydrate malabsorption, and H. pylori infection.
Pre-Test Requirements
Patient Preparation (24-48 hours before)
- No antibiotics for 4 weeks prior
- No probiotics for 2 weeks prior
- No colonoscopy or barium studies for 4 weeks prior
12 Hours Before Test
- Stop eating and drinking (except water)
- No smoking or vigorous exercise
- Avoid sleep medications
Equipment Requirements
- Breath testing device (validated for H2/CH4)
- Collection tubes/bags
- Substrate solution (lactulose, glucose, or fructose)
- Timer
- Recording forms
Testing Procedure
1. Baseline Collection
- Verify patient compliance with preparation instructions
- Collect baseline breath sample
- Record baseline H2 and CH4 levels
2. Substrate Administration
- Lactulose solution: 10g in 200mL water
- Glucose solution: 75g in 200mL water
- Fructose solution: 25g in 200mL water
3. Sample Collection
- Collect samples every 20 minutes
- Continue for 2-3 hours
- Record values on standardized form
Result Interpretation
Positive Results
- H2 rise >20 ppm over baseline
- CH4 rise >10 ppm over baseline
- Combined H2/CH4 rise >15 ppm
Documentation Requirements
- Patient demographics
- Test type and substrate used
- Time-based readings
- Symptoms during test
- Final interpretation
Quality Control
- Calibrate equipment daily
- Maintain temperature control
- Document lot numbers
- Regular staff training
Safety Considerations
- Monitor for adverse reactions
- Emergency protocols in place
- Proper ventilation
- PPE as needed