protocol for the 14C-glycocholate breath test

Last reviewed 01/2018

The protocol is outline below:

  • the patient is fasted overnight
  • basal samples of expired air are collected
  • 10 microCi of 14C-glycocholate are administered
  • expired air samples are collected hourly for 7 hours
  • 14C is measured in the air samples

Interpretation:

  • 14C counts are significantly elevated above control values in patients with bacterial overgrowth