Lactose Intolerance Blood Test
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Test Code: 046300
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
Lactose Intolerance Blood Test (Labcorp)
A Lactose Intolerance test can help aid in the diagnosis of a common digestive disorder. Lactose is a type of sugar found in dairy products. Normally, an enzyme called Lactase, which is produced in the intestines, helps the body break down lactose during digestion so it can be absorbed. In people with a lactase deficiency, the body is not able to properly digest lactose leading to symptoms such as cramps, nausea, diarrhea, gas, and bloating when a person consumes dairy products. Lactase production typically decreases as a person grows older so many people develop lactose intolerance later in life. People from some parts of the word or of certain ethnicities are genetically more likely to develop lactose intolerance. Intolerance can also develop due to conditions such as Celiac Disease, Crohn's Disease, and some types of bacterial infections as well as receiving radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
A test for Lactose Tolerance assesses how well the body processes lactose by measuring glucose levels at various intervals after drinking a lactose solution. Lactose is normally broken down into glucose during the digestive process so a person without Lactose Tolerance will see an increase in glucose levels over several hours when lactose is consumed. The test begins with a fasting blood draw. After drinking a solution containing lactose, blood draws at 30, 60, 90 and 120-minute intervals will follow.
This test is typically ordered when a person experiences common symptoms of intolerance within 30 minutes to 2 hours of eating or drinking products containing dairy.
Note: Appointments are recommended. Customers ordering the Lactose Intolerance test will need to contact their patient service center to ensure they have the necessary lactose solution in stock. Some lab locations will need to order the lactose solution. It may take several days for the solution to be shipped to the lab.
Turnaround for this test is typically 2-3 business days.
Where can I find a Lactose Intolerance test near me?
Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Requirements:
Please review the requirements for this test carefully.
- While appointments are not required at most locations, it is highly recommended to set up an appointment due to the time requirements for this test.
- Customers will need to call their selected patient service center to ensure they have the necessary lactose solution in stock. It may take up to 48 hours for labs to order the necessary solution.
- Fasting for eight hours before testing is required. No smoking or gum chewing allowed during the test. You are encouraged to drink a moderate amount, one to two glasses of water during the test. You should remain seated during the test.
- The lactose tolerance test will be administered over 2 hours, during which time, you will not be able to leave the collection site. Appointments are recommended and several days lead time may be necessary for the lab to order the proper materials.
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