AllClear Healthcare

Overview:

AllClear Healthcare utilizes state-of-the-art gas chromatography analyzers that measure both hydrogen and methane concentrations very precisely and accurately. The analyzer also measures the CO2 concentration in the breath sample and applies a correction factor to the measured hydrogen and methane values to normalize these to a standardized CO2 concentration – and therefore adjust for potential variations of gas concentrations during sampling. This is necessary because during the breath cycle CO2 concentrations (and those of the other gases) vary, due to potential mixing with air in the dead space/room air). In alveolar air the “normal” concentration of CO2 is around 5.5.% (equivalent to 40 mm Hg partial pressure) at sea level – and their machines are calibrated with this value to account and correct for improper sampling variations. The analyzers are regularly calibrated with standardized gas mixtures to assure quality of analysis.

All AllClear technicians are trained by a board-certified gastroenterologist in the on-site sampling technique, performance of the analysis and in the interpretation of the test results. Results are also submitted to the gastroenterologist for review to assure correct interpretation. The customer receives the results from our company and can of course share them with a provider of their choice. Because of HIPAA regulations we will not regularly share results with providers directly, except if specific arrangements are made to comply with such regulations.

For their customers who choose to do the sampling in the comfort of their home, (and mail in their sample) they will receive a complete sampling kit with detailed instructions, including a video explaining the sampling technique, and return-mail supplies. The samples are then processed in our facility using the system that assures accurate sample processing in the same analyzers used for our in-house samples.

The most common application of these breath tests is for the diagnosis of Lactose Intolerance. This is a very common condition, not only in various ethnic groups, but also in older age, and associated with other illnesses (Celiac disease, Diabetes mellitus etc.). 

More recently, SIBO has received a lot of attention – and is considered relatively common in patients after antibiotic therapy, after intestinal surgery, or as a result of medical therapies for a variety of conditions (e.g., acid reflux treatment etc.). It also seems to be associated with diseases that lead to gut motility problems or alter the intestinal environment, e.g., Scleroderma, Diabetes (especially with neuropathy, gastroparesis etc.), Hypothyroidism, Inflammatory bowel disease, Diverticulosis and many others.

Other disorders that can be diagnosed by breath testing are less well known, but are nevertheless rather common contributors to common GI-symptoms: 

·      Fructose Malabsorption

·      Sorbitol Sensitivity