SIBO - 2 Hour

What is the SIBO 2-Hour Test?

The SIBO2-hour Test from Genova Diagnostics is a non-invasive breath test where hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4) gases are captured following patient ingestion of a lactulose solution.

The test aims to evaluate Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

Which Patients is the SIBO 2-Hour Best Used For?

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when an abnormal

increase in the overall bacterial population occurs in the small intestine. These are usually bacteria not commonly found in that part of the digestive tract.

SIBO commonly may occur when surgery or disease slows the passage of food and waste products in the digestive tract, favoring the growth of certain bacteria.

Conditions Commonly Associated with SIBO Include:

• IBS
• IBD
• Celiac Disease
• Diabetes
• Fibromyalgia
• Rosacea
• Parkinson's Disease
• Obesity

Common Causes of SIBO

• Low stomach acid
• Acid-reducing Medications (PPIs, Tums, Pepcid, Prilosec, immunosuppressants)
• Gastroparesis
• Celiac Disease
• Chronic Constipation
• Slow digestion/motility
• Surgery (scar tissue: C section, endometriosis, hysterectomy, tummy tuck)
• Hypothyroid (low thyroid hormone)
• Stress (high cortisol)
• A diet high in sugar, processed carbs, and alcohol
• Infection (h. Pylori, e. Coli, klebsiella)
• Food poisoning (most likely with IBS-D/SIBO-D)
• Structural (ileocecal valve disorder, bariatric)

Symptoms of SIBO

The excess bacteria may cause gas, burping, bloating, diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition. Other symptoms are:

• Bloating worse at the end of the day
• The patient feels better on a Low FODMAP diet
• Patients' symptoms get better after antibiotic treatment
• The patient feels worse after taking probiotics
• An uncomfortable feeling of fullness or gas immediately after eating

What Does SIBO 2-hour Test Measure?

The SIBO-2-hour test measures hydrogen and methane levels on six breaths collected in tubes after consuming a lactulose solution. The tubes are shipped to the lab.

Fasting for 12 hours before the test is required, and patients should not be taking probiotics 24 hours before the test.

Why Choose a 2-Hour vs. 3-Hour Test?

Clinicians have the option of a 2 or 3-hour SIBO assessment.

The 3-hour SIBO profile provides insight into gas levels over an extended period. The 3-hour test is recommended for patients with slower gastrointestinal transit or constipation.

What Type of Sample is Needed to Complete the SIBO 2- Hour test?

Six fasting breath samples are required for the test. Patients will collect the samples following the collection instructions indicated by Genova Diagnostics.

Samples should be taken at baseline and after 20 minutes, 40 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, and 120 minutes.

Notes

*The test is not recommended for individuals who have allergic reactions to lactulose or are on a lactose-restricted diet.

*This test is not appropriate for children under 25 pounds