What is the SIBO Test?

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition that results in excessive bloating and gas, especially after meals, as well as other IBS symptoms. Genova’s non-invasive SIBO breath test can detect the gases that are produced by the bacteria. Treatment often involves eliminating the overgrowth with antibiotics, herbal supplements, and/or a specialized diet. Genova offers a 2 or 3-hour SIBO assessment. The 3-hour SIBO profile provides insight into gas levels over a longer period of time, and is recommended for patients with slower gastrointestinal transit or constipation

Genova’s SIBO Profiles are non-invasive breath tests which capture exhaled hydrogen (H₂) and methane (CH₄) gases, following patient ingestion of a lactulose solution, to evaluate bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine (SIBO). Expected values for both H₂ and CH₄ are based on the 2017 North American breath testing consensus group recommendations.

What advantage does the SIBO breath test offer compared to other diagnostics?

While aspiration of small bowel fluid (followed by culture and bacterial count) is considered to be the current gold standard for diagnosis of SIBO, it is not routinely performed because it requires a complex, invasive technique, and is costly. As a result, experts suggest breath testing for the diagnosis of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.

When should testing for SIBO be considered?

Symptoms of SIBO are non-specific, encompassing abdominal pain/distention, diarrhea, and flatulence.

Conditions commonly associated with SIBO include:

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• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

• Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD)

• Celiac Disease

• Diabetes

• Fibromyalgia

• Rosacea

• Parkinson's Disease

• Obesity

Risk factors for development of SIBO include structural/anatomic issues, motility disorders, organ system dysfunction, elderly age and various medications (recurrent antibiotics, PPIs) that alter the gut microflora populations.

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Symptomatic patients with any underlying conditions or risk factors warrant assessment for SIBO.

Markers in the NutrEval Profile

• H2 - Hydrogen

• CH4 - Methane