The Inverse Starving Test for Gilbert's Syndrome
Author Information
Author(s): Niels Teich, Inken Lehmann, Jonas Rosendahl, Michael Tröltzsch, Joachim Mössner, Ingolf Schiefke
Primary Institution: Universitätsklinikum Leipzig
Hypothesis
Is the inverse starving test a suitable provocation test for Gilbert's syndrome?
Conclusion
The inverse starving test is not an appropriate provocation test for patients with suspected Gilbert's syndrome.
Supporting Evidence
- The inverse starving test did not induce a significant reduction in UCB levels.
- All patients carried an UGT1A1 promoter polymorphism.
- The nicotinic acid test showed a sensitivity of 83%.
Takeaway
The inverse starving test didn't work to diagnose a liver condition called Gilbert's syndrome, so doctors need to use other tests instead.
Methodology
Patients underwent both the inverse starving test and the nicotinic acid test to measure serum bilirubin levels.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the exclusion of patients with certain conditions.
Limitations
The study did not include healthy controls and had a small sample size.
Participant Demographics
18 patients (7 females, 11 males) with a median age of 34.5 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.038
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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