OBJECTIVES: IBS is a common gastrointestinal disorder affecting over 10% of the US population. Accurately diagnosing IBS with current available invasive tests may be difficult since the focus is to rule out alarm features. Patients are subjected to invasive diagnostic tests that are costly and may not provide additional information. A real-world study has been initiated to evaluate the impact of a non-invasive 2^nd generation blood test and breath test in terms of reducing the need for further testing and directing treatment vs control. The present analysis reports on 39 control subjects being seen by a gastroenterologist.

METHODS: A medical records review of subjects presenting with GI symptoms for IBS-D/M or C were considered for inclusion into the study. Patient-level data for contacts, diagnostic tests, and medications are being captured between 2017 to present. Sample size of approximately 200 subjects from 2 gastroenterologists are currently being enrolled. Groups include control, subjects who have utilized a 2^nd generation blood, ibs-smart®, trio-smart® breath test or both tests together are also being enrolled.

RESULTS: Thirty-nine control group subjects are included in this analysis. The mean age was 59.5 years old, 77% female. Patients had an average of 2.8 tests with over 60% of patients having a diagnostic test more than one year after their first office visit. Over 60% of patients had a Colonoscopy, Upper Endoscopy, or Lactulose Breath Test. Less frequent tests include Capsule Endoscopy, C-Reactive Protein, Celiac Panel , first generation blood test for IBS and CT Scan.

CONCLUSIONS: Colonoscopy and other invasive tests continue to be utilized adding to costs and discomfort of patients. Novel non-invasive blood and breath tests are currently being evaluated (sample too small to report) show promise in terms of reduction of downstream invasive testing and targeted treatment which may lead to lower system costs and accurate diagnosis.