Introduction:

The estimated global prevalence of lactose intolerance is 68%, while in Colombia, it reaches up to 59%. Primary lactase deficiency is the most common cause of lactose intolerance and malabsorption in adults. The lactose hydrogen breath test (HBT) is a routinely used diagnostic tool for this condition.

Methodology:

All lactose hydrogen breath tests (HBTs) conducted between August 2020 and September 2023 at the Gastropack medical center in Cartagena were reviewed. These tests were performed on patients presenting with symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea during gastroenterology consultations. Medical records were analyzed, and all clinical and sociodemographic variables were documented to characterize the population with lactose intolerance.

Results:

Out of 397 hydrogen breath tests performed between August 2020 and September 2023, 62 were identified as lactose HBTs. Of these, 24.4% were female patients, with an average age of 47 years. The most common symptoms included abdominal pain (71%), bloating (66.1%), diarrhea (30%), and flatulence (29%). Additionally, 38.7% of patients had a prior diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Overall, 51.6% of the tests were positive for lactose intolerance. Among IBS patients, 44% tested positive for lactose intolerance. No statistically significant differences were found between patients with and without lactose intolerance.

Conclusion:

This study did not identify specific factors associated with lactose intolerance. Although the sample size was relatively small, performing lactose hydrogen breath tests is recommended in patients with suggestive symptoms and in those with conditions that share similar symptoms, such as IBS. This approach can help prevent unnecessary dietary restrictions that may negatively impact patients’ quality of life and nutritional status.

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