SUCROSE MALABSORPTION TEST

Sucrose Malabsorption Test

Clinic Test: €190, Home Test: €185

Sucrose is normally broken down in the small intestine by the sucrase enzyme.

When Sucrose Malabsorption occurs, the sucrose is not properly broken down or absorbed in the small intestine leading to gastrointestinal upset.

The Sucrose Malabsorption test can be done either in one of our clinic locations or the test can be perfomed at home using a home testing kit.

Sucrose is normally broken down in the small intestine by the sucrase enzyme. When Sucrose Malabsorption occurs, the sucrose is not properly broken down or absorbed in the small intestine. It travels to the colon where it is metabolised by colonic bacteria. Sucrose is also known as table or cane sugar.

Some people with genetic sucrase – isomaltase deficiency (GSID) are often misdiagnosed with IBS. People with GSID cannot digest sucrose and maltose (sugar found in grains) and can have difficulty digesting starch. Symptoms range from mild to severe.

The Hydrogen and Methane breath test is non-invasive and is performed to test for Sucrose Malabsorption.

Testing is simple and non-invasive. This investigation is a clinical based diagnostic test that can be performed at home or else in one of our clinic locations. You will be sent out a full kit with easy to follow instructions.

No blood samples are necessary for this test, only breath samples are required at timed intervals after consuming a sweetened drink.

People often wonder how a breath sample can provide so much clinical information from the intestine but its quite simple. When the sweetened drink passes through your digestive tract, different gases are produced depending on the reaction it has with your digestive system. These gases pass out of of your gut and into you blood system. When your blood makes its way back to your lungs and you breath out, these gases are detected.

Test Duration: Up to 3 hours

Testing Age: Over 16 years

Referral: No referral required

Results: Approx. 3-4 working days

Clinic Test Fee: €190

Home Test Kit Fee: €185

Please note that if you are on a long-term antibiotic prescription, please contact us for testing advice.

A pre-procedure instruction sheet can be viewed by clicking the link below. This should be viewed and adhered to upon booking your appointment to ensure accurate results.

Download a timing planner for your Hydrogen & Methane Breath test.