20th July 2023

A 45-year-old woman is referred to a gastroenterology outpatient clinic with a 6-month history of intermittent generalised abdominal pain

A 45-year-old woman is referred to a gastroenterology outpatient clinic with a 6-month history of intermittent generalised abdominal pain, bloating and pungent flatulence. The symptoms have persisted despite the patient eliminating lactose, gluten and high FODMAP foods from her diet. She has no past medical history, takes no regular medications and has no medication allergies. She has not travelled overseas in 2 years. Routine bloods, including coeliac serology, were normal. Clinical examination is unremarkable. The gastroenterologist has suggested investigating for SIBO.

What is the best initial test to investigate for this condition?

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