Instructions for Conducting the Bacterial Overgrowth Breath Test
Kit Contents
The test kit should contain the following items:
- 4 breath collection tubes
- Lactulose (Kristalose) sugar package
- Straw
- Test Requisition Form (Lab can not process test if this form is not filled out completely.)
- Security seal for return shipment using original test box
Test Procedure
Step 1: Collect one breath sample in the collection tube with the blue cap labeled baseline.
- Unscrew the cap of the breath collection tube.
- Take a full breath and exhale through the straw directly into the tube.
- After filling the tube with breath, replace the cap immediately. Screw cap so that it is “finger-tight”. Do not over tighten cap. If you can’t replace the cap on the tube within 5 seconds, simply start the breath collection again from step 1 above.
Step 2: Dissolve the Lactulose sugar in 8 ounces of warm water with vigorous stirring. Lactulose is not as soluble as table sugar, so it may be necessary to swirl the glass to keep the sugar in solution while it is being consumed.
Special Instructions for Testing Children
If the child weighs over 50 pounds, have the child drink the adult dose (8 ounces of solution).
For children weighing 35 to 49 pounds, pour 3/4 of the solution into a new glass. Then add water until you have 8 ounces of fluid.
For children weighing under 35 pounds, pour 1/2 of the solution into a new glass. Add enough water to make 8 ounces of fluid.
Have the child drink the entire 8 ounces of the reduced lactulose solution.
Step 3: Begin drinking the Lactulose solution. Note the time at when you have finished drinking the Lactulose solution. This is the lactulose dosing time.
Step 4: Wait for 20 minutes from the lactulose dosing time. Collect one more breath sample using the pink cap collection tube labeled 20 min.
Step 5: Wait for 40 minutes from the lactulose dosing time. Collect one more breath sample using the white cap collection tube labeled 40 min.
Step 6: Wait for 60 minutes from the lactulose dosing time. Collect one more breath sample using the red cap collection tube labeled 60 min.
Step 7: Place all the tubes in the slots in the original box along with the completed test requisition form. Secure the box with the enclosed security seal. Drop the test box into any mailbox.
The results of the test will be faxed to your practice the same day as samples are received.