Légzésgázanalízis

Légzésgázanalízis, commonly known as breath analysis, is a medical technique used to examine the composition of a person's exhaled breath. This non-invasive method can provide valuable diagnostic information about various physiological conditions, metabolic processes, and the presence of certain substances. The primary principle behind breath analysis is that the composition of exhaled air reflects the internal state of the body, including gases produced or consumed by metabolic activities, or substances that have been absorbed and are then eliminated through the lungs.

Different types of breath analyzers are employed for specific purposes. For instance, infrared spectroscopy is often used to measure carbon monoxide levels, which can indicate exposure to environmental pollutants or smoking. Mass spectrometry is a more sensitive technique capable of detecting a wider range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the breath. These VOCs can be biomarkers for diseases such as lung cancer, diabetes, or liver disorders. Isotope breath tests are another application, where a substance labeled with a stable isotope (like carbon-13) is ingested, and its metabolic breakdown products are detected in the breath, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions like Helicobacter pylori infection or malabsorption syndromes.

The results of légzésgázanalízis can assist in early disease detection, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and understanding individual metabolic profiles. Its non-invasive nature makes it a patient-friendly diagnostic tool, often complementing other medical investigations. Continued research is expanding the range of detectable biomarkers and the applications of breath analysis in various medical fields.