Diagnostic Tests for Breath odor

Diagnostic Test list for Breath odor:

The list of diagnostic tests mentioned in various sources as used in the diagnosis of Breath odor includes:

• Physical examination
  • Note nature of odor - if sweet may suggest diabetic ketoacidosis ( sickly sweet smell), alcoholism ( distinctive), liver failure( a sweet smell) and maple syrup urine disease; if unpleasant or foul may suggest renal failure (urine or fish-like breath due to ammonia), anaerobic infections of the mouth, nose, pharynx or chest (putrid) or cigarettes ( distinctive).
  • Examine state of teeth and teeth hygiene and note whether the teeth are real or false - loose fitting teeth may be responsible for mouth ulcers or decayed teeth which may cause breath odor.
  • Remove false teeth for complete examination
  • Urine analysis - glucose and ketones present may suggest diabetic ketoacidosis as cause.
  • Culture of the mouth, gums and nasopharynx - may be necessary to diagnose anaerobic infections.
  • Sputum microscopy and culture
  • X-ray or CT scan of chest or sinuses - if suspect respiratory infection as cause of breath odor.
• Blood tests
  • Full blood count and ESR (may suggest infection)
  • Renal function tests ( may suggest renal failure as cause)
  • Liver function tests ( may suggest hepatic coma as cause )
  • Blood sugar may suggest diabetic ketoacidosis
  • Blood alcohol level

Home Diagnostic Testing

These home medical tests may be relevant to Breath odor causes:

• Lung & Respiratory Health Tests:
  • Asthma-Related Home Test Kits
  • Home Lung Function Test Kits

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