Gastrointestinal Physiology Laboratory

Baylor's Gastrointestinal Physiology Laboratory's broad array of diagnostic testing services includes specialized procedures that are typically not available at other facilities. The following procedures are performed at the lab:

• Ambulatory pH monitoring. A persistently low pH reading in the esophagus may indicate a frequent backup of stomach acid into the esophagus, a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Anal manometry. This test is done to evaluate the strength of the anal muscles, a procedure helpful in the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Breath hydrogen testing. This is a procedure used to help identify lactose intolerance.
• Complete stool analysis. A thorough examination of the stool is a useful tool in the diagnosis of such digestive disorders and disease as infection, malabsorption, and cancer.
• Esophageal-motility studies. Evaluation of the strength and pattern of muscular contractions in the esophagus can help pinpoint the presence of such esophageal-motility disorders as achalasia and diffuse esophageal spasm (DES).
• Pancreatic-exocrine testing. Assessment of pancreatic-exocrine function can help diagnose insufficiency related to pancreatitis or diabetes.